Fin's Fish Guide
The South American pilchard (Sardinops sagax) is a saltwater fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Productive, cooler coastal waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, along the coasts of America, southern Africa and Australasia.
Description
The South American pilchard (also pilchard or sardine) is a slender, strongly silvery sardine of the family Clupeidae reaching about 40 cm. The body has a blue-green back, a silver flank with a row of dark spots and fine ridges on the gill cover. The species forms enormous schools in productive, cooler coastal waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, along the Americas, southern Africa and Australasia, and filters animal and plant plankton. Through its gigantic numbers it is a key link in the ocean food web and the basis of some of the world's largest fisheries, for fresh consumption, canning, fish oil and bait. Its abundance swings strongly with ocean conditions.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the South American pilchard?
The South American pilchard has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Slender, strongly silver-shining sardine with a blue-green back and a row of dark blotches on the flank; forms enormous shoals.
Where does the South American pilchard live?
The South American pilchard lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Productive, cooler coastal waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, along the coasts of America, southern Africa and Australasia.
How big does the South American pilchard get?
The South American pilchard grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the South American pilchard dangerous to humans?
No, the South American pilchard is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the South American pilchard edible?
Yes, the South American pilchard is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the South American pilchard?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the South American pilchard is one of 12,519 species in the app.