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Japanese anchovy facts for kids

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Japanese anchovy
Engraulis japonicus 01.JPG
Scientific classification
Synonyms
  • Atherina japonica Houttuyn, 1782
  • Engraulis capensis (non Gilchrist, 1913)
  • Engraulis japonica Temminck & Schlegel, 1846
  • Engraulis zollingeri Bleeker, 1849
  • Engraulus japonicus Temminck & Schlegel, 1846
  • Stolephorus celebicus Hardenberg, 1933
  • Stolephorus zollingeri (Bleeker, 1849)

The Japanese anchovy (Engraulis japonicus) is a small, silvery fish. It belongs to the Engraulidae family, which includes many types of anchovies. These fish are known for swimming together in huge groups called schools.

About the Japanese Anchovy

Japanese anchovies are small fish, usually growing to about 10 to 15 centimeters (4 to 6 inches) long. They have a slender body and a shiny, silvery color. They are an important part of the ocean's food web. Many larger fish, birds, and marine mammals eat them.

Where They Live

These anchovies are very common in the Pacific Ocean. You can find them in many areas, including the Sea of Okhotsk in the north. They are also widespread in the Sea of Japan, the Yellow Sea, and the East China Sea. They often swim close to the coasts of Japan.

Life Cycle and Reproduction

Japanese anchovies usually live for about 2 to 3 years. This is similar to how long European anchovy live. During their lives, they reproduce by laying eggs. They spawn, or lay their eggs, in a wide area. This area stretches from Taiwan in the south all the way up to southern Sakhalin.

Why They Are Important

Japanese anchovies are not just food for other sea animals. They are also very important to people. In many parts of Asia, especially Japan and Korea, these anchovies are caught for food. They are often dried and used in many traditional dishes.

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