European Pilchard [Sardina pilchardus]
Description
The European Pilchard, also known as the true sardine, is found in the Northeast Atlantic, the Mediterranean, and the Black Sea. They are small, silver fish with a single dorsal fin and a forked tail. They are typically found in large schools near the surface of the water. Their diet consists of plankton. They are an essential part of the marine food chain and are also a significant species for commercial fishing.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Fish
Actinopterygii
|
| Order |
Herrings and Anchovies
Clupeiformes
|
| Family |
Herrings and Sardines
Clupeidae
|
| Genus |
Sardines
Sardinops
|