How to Identify Japanese anchovy

To identify Japanese anchovy (Engraulis japonicus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

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

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Snout prominent, projecting beyond the tip of the lower jaw., Large mouth, extending well behind the eye., Small, pointed teeth present in both jaws., Single dorsal fin located mid-body., Absence of a lateral line.

Dorsal fin

Single, short-based dorsal fin with 12-15 soft rays, positioned approximately at the midpoint of the body.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively short, located low on the body, with 13-15 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are small, abdominal, with 7 rays. Anal fin is long-based, originating behind 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 when closed.

2. 2

   Mouth

   The mouth is large and extends far back, past the posterior margin of the eye.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Slender, elongated, and somewhat rounded in cross-section, lacking the strong compression seen in some other clupeiforms.

4. 4

   Coloration

   Bluish-green back and silvery sides, often with a faint silvery stripe.

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