Sardine

A sardine is a common name for several species of small, oily, schooling fish in the herring family, especially species in the genera Sardina, Sardinops, and Sardinella.

A sardine is a common name for several species of small, oily, schooling fish in the herring family, especially species in the genera Sardina, Sardinops, and Sardinella. The term is also sometimes used more broadly for other small herring-like fish, especially when canned. Sardines are found in marine waters around the world and are an important food fish and forage fish.

Taxonomy and naming

Sardine is a vernacular term used for several small herring-like fish, especially in the genera Sardina, Sardinops, and Sardinella. In some contexts, it may also be applied to other small clupeid fishes, including herring sold in a sardine-style pack.

Distribution and habitat

Sardines occur in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, often near coasts and in surface waters. They are schooling fish that may move seasonally in response to food availability and ocean conditions.

Biology and ecology

Sardines are small, oily fish that feed on plankton and are important prey for larger marine animals. Their populations can fluctuate with temperature, productivity, and changes in zooplankton abundance.

Human use

Sardines are a major commercial seafood species and are commonly eaten canned, fresh, smoked, or preserved in oil or brine. They are also recognized as a nutrient-rich fish, especially for omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamin B12, selenium, and calcium.