How to Identify Baltic Herring

To identify Baltic Herring (Clupea harengus membras), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal side is typically dark blue to greenish-blue, fading to silvery flanks and a white belly. Iridescent sheen often present.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Slender body compared to Atlantic Herring, Absence of a lateral line, Single dorsal fin, Forked caudal fin, Ventral keel of modified scales (scutes) along the belly, though less pronounced than some other clupeids.

Dorsal fin

Single, relatively short dorsal fin located mid-body, typically with 17-20 soft rays.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin, symmetrical lobes.

Pectoral fin

Small, low-set pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located beneath the dorsal fin. No adipose fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Size

   Generally smaller than Atlantic Herring, typically reaching 14-20 cm, rarely exceeding 30 cm.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   More slender and elongated body profile compared to the deeper-bodied Atlantic Herring.

3. 3

   Coloration

   Classic dark blue/green back with silvery sides and white belly, common to many pelagic clupeids.

4. 4

   Scales

   Large, easily shed cycloid scales. The ventral keel of scutes is present but less prominent than in species like Sprat.

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