Anchovy

ocean · small fish · food chain

Super tiny swimmers. Anchovies are small forage fish, usually only a few inches long, but they live together in enormous schools with millions of other anchovies. These massive groups help them stay safe from bigger fish that want to eat them.

Ocean and river homes. Most anchovies live in salty ocean water around the world, but some species are brave enough to swim into brackish water where rivers meet the sea. A few species in South America live entirely in fresh water rivers and lakes.

Feeding the world. Anchovies are one of the most important fish in the ocean because so many sea creatures, seabirds, and even whales depend on them for food. Humans also catch billions of anchovies each year to eat and to turn into fish meal and oil.

Lightning fast. These little fish are built for speed, with streamlined bodies that help them zoom through the water and escape from predators. Their quick movements and huge numbers make them incredibly successful survivors in the ocean.

Tiny but mighty. Even though anchovies are small, they have excellent hearing and can detect vibrations in the water to find food and communicate with other fish in their school.