Harengula
Harengula is a genus of small, pelagic fish belonging to the family Clupeidae, which also includes herring, sardines, and anchovies. These fish are commonly known as “round herrings” or “whitebait” and are found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Characteristics
Harengula species typically exhibit several shared characteristics. Their bodies are elongated and slender, with a slightly compressed profile. They possess a single dorsal fin positioned towards the middle of the back, followed by a series of finlets. Their scales are small and cycloid, meaning they are smooth and rounded. These fish typically have a silvery coloration with a dark stripe running along the side of their body.
Environment
Harengula species are pelagic, meaning they inhabit the open ocean, often forming large schools in mid-water. They are generally found in coastal areas and offshore waters, where they feed primarily on plankton and small invertebrates.
Species
The genus Harengula includes several recognized species:
- Harengula clupeola (Atlantic round herring)
- Harengula jaguana (Jagua herring)
- Harengula humeralis (Pacific round herring)
- Harengula longiceps (Long-headed herring)
- Harengula macrophthalma (Large-eyed herring)
- Harengula pensacolae (Pensacola herring)
- Harengula thrissina (Striped herring)
- Harengula vittata (Banded herring)