Aliciidae
The Aliciidae are a family of ray-finned fish belonging to the order Clupeiformes. They are commonly known as anchovies and are small, slender fish with a streamlined body and a single dorsal fin. Aliciidae are a globally distributed family, with species found in both marine and brackish waters. They are important members of the marine ecosystem, serving as prey for larger fish, birds, and marine mammals.
Common Names
Members of the family Aliciidae are commonly known as anchovies, although some species may have additional names depending on their geographical location. Some examples of common names include:
- European anchovy
- Japanese anchovy
- American anchovy
- Peruvian anchovy
Characteristics
Aliciidae are characterized by the following features:
- Slender, streamlined body
- Single dorsal fin
- Small mouth with numerous, fine teeth
- Scales present on the body
- Lateral line present but often incomplete
- Most species have a silvery coloration
Environments
Aliciidae are found in a wide range of marine and brackish waters. They are typically found in coastal areas, particularly in areas with high productivity. Some species may also be found in open ocean waters.
References
For further information, refer to these reliable sources: