Indian Mackerel
Rastrelliger kanagurta · ras-trel-EE-jer ka-na-GUR-ta
diurnalschoolsLeast Concern
EdibleFriendly
Superpower
Swims open-mouthed through plankton clouds, straining food with comb-like gill rakers.
At a glance
- Size
- typically 19 cm, up to 35 cm
- Lifespan
- 4–6 years
- Depth
- 20–90 m
Habitat
Coastal waters, schooling in midwater.
Diet
Plankton, filtered while swimming with its mouth open.
Can I eat it?
Yes — edible · tastiness 6/10.
How to cook: Fried or grilled — the everyday 'alumahan/hasa-hasa'.
Fun facts
- Alumahan is one of the most common everyday fish in the Philippines.
- It filters plankton by swimming with its mouth wide open.
- Indian mackerel often school alongside sardines and scads.