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What is an Atlantic Herring?

Steve R.
Steve R.

Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus), also known as the common herring, Atlantic sardine, and sperling, is a silver fish found that is plentiful in northern latitudes and has a lifespan of 15 years. The herrings live in large schools, and are one of almost 200 herring species in the Clupeidae family that contain a single dorsal fin situated in the midpoint of its body. Typically, the Atlantic herring grows to 17 inches (about 43 centimeters) in length and tips the scales at 1.5 pounds (about 0.7 kilograms). What sets the Atlantic herring apart from other species of herring is its collection of tiny teeth, organized in an oval-like fashion on the roof of its mouth.

Located in coastal and continental shelf waters in the North Atlantic Ocean, the fish are pelagic, meaning they spend the majority of their lives in the open sea, as well as along offshore banks. In the eastern Atlantic, herring can be found from the Baltic Sea to Iceland. In the western Atlantic, the fish are located from Greenland to South Carolina.

Lumpfish, like Atlantic herring, is a type of fish typically found in the North Atlantic Ocean.
Lumpfish, like Atlantic herring, is a type of fish typically found in the North Atlantic Ocean.

Females are capable of producing 30,000 to 200,000 eggs during their lifetime. Spawning occurs from late August to early November. Eggs are deposited on the sea floor, often on rocks, gravel, or sand. Within two weeks, the eggs hatch. By the end of their first year, a herring is about 5 inches (about 13 centimeters) in length, and doubles in size by its second year. By the age of 4 or 5, the herring reaches maturity.

During their lives, Atlantic herrings may migrate hundreds of miles. During the winter months, herrings migrate to warmer water. In the winter, many schools of herrings may unite.

Atlantic herrings live in large schools.
Atlantic herrings live in large schools.

The Atlantic herring, which feeds on zooplankton, krill, and fish larvae, has many predators since the fish is relatively small in stature and so plentiful in the ocean. Predators include sharks, skates, seabirds, and marine mammals. As the herring lays its eggs on the sea floor, the eggs are often eaten by bottom-dwelling fish such as cod, haddock, and flounder.

When canned, herring is more commonly known as sardines.
When canned, herring is more commonly known as sardines.

During the 1970s, the Atlantic herring's population declined due to heavy fishing. However, the population of the fish made a comeback in the 1980s thanks to imposed fishing regulations. The herring is valued for its source of omega-3s, B12, and iron. Herrings are often distributed frozen or canned as sardines across the globe. Fishermen also use the Atlantic herring for bait to catch crab, lobster, and tuna.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Atlantic Herring?

Sardines -- a type of small fish in the herring family -- are rich in calcium and other minerals, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Sardines -- a type of small fish in the herring family -- are rich in calcium and other minerals, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Atlantic herring is a small, schooling fish native to the North Atlantic Ocean. It plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem as a forage fish, forming the basis of the diet for many larger predators. These silver-colored fish are also significant for commercial fisheries, providing food for humans and bait for other fishing industries.

How big do Atlantic Herrings get?

Atlantic herrings are relatively small fish, with adults typically measuring between 20 and 38 centimeters (8 to 15 inches) in length. However, they can reach up to 45 centimeters (18 inches) and weigh around 1.5 pounds. Their size can vary depending on the specific region and the conditions of their habitat.

What do Atlantic Herrings eat?

Atlantic herrings are filter feeders, consuming primarily plankton. Their diet consists of small organisms like copepods, krill, and fish larvae. They have specialized gill rakers that allow them to efficiently strain these tiny creatures from the water as they swim with their mouths open.

How do Atlantic Herrings reproduce?

Atlantic herrings reach sexual maturity at about three to four years of age. They exhibit a reproductive behavior known as broadcast spawning, where females release eggs and males release sperm into the water column simultaneously. This method increases the likelihood of fertilization. A single female can lay up to 200,000 eggs per year.

What is the conservation status of Atlantic Herrings?

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Atlantic herring is currently listed as a species of "Least Concern." This status reflects the fish's wide distribution and abundant population. However, they are subject to fishing pressures, and management of herring stocks is essential to prevent overfishing and ensure sustainability.

Why are Atlantic Herrings important to the ecosystem?

Atlantic herrings are a keystone species in the North Atlantic ecosystem. They serve as a vital food source for a variety of marine animals, including seabirds, marine mammals, and larger fish. Their role in the food web helps maintain the balance and health of the marine environment, supporting biodiversity and the overall functioning of the ecosystem.

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    • Lumpfish, like Atlantic herring, is a type of fish typically found in the North Atlantic Ocean.
      By: Picture Partners
      Lumpfish, like Atlantic herring, is a type of fish typically found in the North Atlantic Ocean.
    • Atlantic herrings live in large schools.
      By: Paul Vinten
      Atlantic herrings live in large schools.
    • When canned, herring is more commonly known as sardines.
      By: dudakova elena
      When canned, herring is more commonly known as sardines.
    • Sardines -- a type of small fish in the herring family -- are rich in calcium and other minerals, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids.
      By: Picture Partners
      Sardines -- a type of small fish in the herring family -- are rich in calcium and other minerals, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids.