Southern African Anchovy
Engraulis capensis
- Group: Other
- Typical depth: to 450 m
- Max size: 17 cm
- For divers: safe
- IUCN status: LC
This small anchovy schools through coastal waters off southern Africa and Namibia, straining plankton from the water and ranging down to around 400 metres. Larvae and young hunt prey one at a time before switching to filter feeding as adults. Purse seiners take it in great numbers.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Clupeiformes › Engraulidae › Engraulis
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 219983.
FAQ
- How deep does the Southern African Anchovy live?
- The Southern African Anchovy (Engraulis capensis) is typically found at to 450 m.
- Is the Southern African Anchovy dangerous to divers?
- The Southern African Anchovy is harmless to divers.
- How big does the Southern African Anchovy get?
- The Southern African Anchovy grows to about 17 cm.