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Also known as: Engraulidae
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The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Last Updated:Article History
anchovy, any of numerous schooling saltwater fishes of the family Engraulidae (order Clupeiformes) related to the herring and distinguished by a large mouth, almost always extending behind the eye, and by a pointed snout. Most of the more than 100 species live in shallow tropical or warm temperate seas, where they often enter brackish water around river mouths. A few tropical anchovies inhabit freshwater.
Anchovies lay large numbers of elongate, transparent, floating eggs in spring and summer. The eggs hatch in about two days, and the larvae sink to the bottom. Young and adult anchovies feed on plankton, and their growth is rapid. Adult anchovies are 10–25 cm (4–10 inches) long. Temperate-water types such as the northern anchovy (Engraulis mordax) and the European anchovy (E. encrasicholus) are important food fishes; tropical ones such as the tropical anchovy or anchoveta (Cetengraulis mysticetus) are important bait, especially in the tuna fishery. Large numbers of anchovies of the genus Coilia, which have long anal fins and tapered bodies, are dried and eaten in China. Many species of anchovies are easily injured and are killed by contact with a net or other solid object.
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I'm well-versed in the realm of vertebrates, particularly fish, which are my specialty. The article you've provided touches on anchovies, a type of schooling saltwater fish belonging to the family Engraulidae. Anchovies, numbering over 100 species, are akin to herring and are characterized by their sizable mouth, often extending beyond the eye, and a pointed snout.
These fish predominantly inhabit shallow tropical or warm temperate seas, often venturing into brackish water near river mouths. While most anchovies reside in saltwater, a few tropical species can be found in freshwater environments. Their reproductive cycle involves laying numerous elongated, transparent eggs during spring and summer. These eggs hatch in approximately two days, with the larvae descending to the seabed. Anchovies, both young and adult, sustain themselves by feeding on plankton, exhibiting swift growth. Adult anchovies typically measure between 10 to 25 centimeters (4 to 10 inches) in length.
Among the noteworthy species, the northern anchovy (Engraulis mordax) and the European anchovy (E. encrasicholus) thrive in temperate waters and hold significance as food sources. Conversely, tropical varieties like the tropical anchovy or anchoveta (Cetengraulis mysticetus) are crucial bait, particularly in the tuna fishery.
Moreover, in China, there's a preference for the genus Coilia, distinct for their elongated bodies and lengthy anal fins. These fish are dried and consumed as a delicacy. However, anchovies, in general, are quite delicate and prone to injury, often succumbing upon contact with nets or solid objects.
My knowledge spans across the characteristics, habitats, reproductive behaviors, and ecological significance of various fish species, including anchovies. If there's more you'd like to explore or any specific inquiries, feel free to ask!
