Fin's Fish Guide
The Japanese anchovy (Engraulis japonicus) is a saltwater fish of the family Engraulidae that grows up to 18 cm.
East Asia, in the waters around Japan, Korea and China, pelagic in coastal water above the continental shelf.
Description
The Japanese anchovy is a slender, silvery anchovy of the family Engraulidae (anchovies) reaching about 18 cm. The slender body has a large mouth under a projecting, translucent snout and a shiny silvery lengthwise band along the flank. With fine gill rakers the fish filters and hunts zooplankton, such as small crustaceans and larvae. The species forms enormous schools that live pelagically in coastal water around Japan, Korea and China and migrate along the coast with the seasons. Through its tremendous numbers the Japanese anchovy is one of the most important commercial fish of East Asia - fresh, dried or processed - and an indispensable prey for countless larger fish, seabirds and marine mammals.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese anchovy?
The Japanese anchovy has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender, silvery small anchovy with a large mouth beneath a projecting snout and a shiny silver longitudinal band; forms enormous shoals.
Where does the Japanese anchovy live?
The Japanese anchovy lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. East Asia, in the waters around Japan, Korea and China, pelagic in coastal water above the continental shelf.
How big does the Japanese anchovy get?
The Japanese anchovy grows to a maximum of about 18 cm. On average the species is around 14 cm.
Is the Japanese anchovy dangerous to humans?
No, the Japanese anchovy is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Japanese anchovy edible?
Yes, the Japanese anchovy is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
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Status & sources
Same genus Engraulis
More from the family Engraulidae
Want the complete picture on the Japanese anchovy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese anchovy is one of 12,519 species in the app.