How to Identify European Anchovy

To identify European Anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal side is typically bluish-green to dark blue, fading to silvery flanks and a bright silvery belly. A distinct silvery lateral stripe may be present, especially in fresh specimens.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Snout prominently extends beyond the tip of the lower jaw, giving the mouth an inferior position., Large eyes relative to head size., Absence of a lateral line., Small, deciduous scales., Single, short dorsal fin located mid-body.

Dorsal fin

Single, short-based dorsal fin, typically with 12-15 soft rays, positioned anterior to the anal fin origin.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin, symmetrical lobes.

Pectoral fin

Small, located low on the body, with 13-15 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are small and located abdominally, anterior to the dorsal fin origin. Anal fin is relatively long, originating posterior to the dorsal fin, with 15-19 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Snout

   The most distinguishing feature is the pointed snout that clearly extends beyond the lower jaw, covering the mouth.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   Slender, cylindrical body, typically reaching 10-15 cm in length, with a maximum recorded length of about 20 cm.

3. 3

   Coloration

   Bluish-green back, silvery sides and belly. The silvery lateral stripe is often quite prominent.

4. 4

   Fins

   A single, short dorsal fin and a deeply forked caudal fin. The anal fin is relatively long.

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