European Pilchard

Sardina pilchardus

European Pilchard

The pilchard of European seas forms dense schools that sink to between 25 and 100 metres by day and rise toward the surface at night. It strains plankton from the water and spawns tens of thousands of eggs into the open sea, landing fresh, canned, salted or smoked.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Clupeiformes › Alosidae › Sardina

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 126421.

FAQ

How deep does the European Pilchard live?
The European Pilchard (Sardina pilchardus) is typically found at 10–100 m.
Is the European Pilchard dangerous to divers?
The European Pilchard is harmless to divers.
How big does the European Pilchard get?
The European Pilchard grows to about 27.5 cm.