Engraulis mordax

Engraulis mordax Girard, 1854 is a species of actinopterygii belonging to the family Engraulidae (order Clupeiformes).

Common name. In English this species is commonly known as the Californian anchoveta.

Taxonomy. The scientific name Engraulis mordax Girard, 1854 places this species within the actinopterygii lineage, among the most diverse vertebrates on Earth.

Description & ecology. As a member of Clupeiformes, Engraulis mordax exhibits the group's characteristic adaptations: They are small, silvery, schooling plankton-feeders central to marine food webs and fisheries. Its biology reflects the demands of its particular habitat and life history within the family Engraulidae.

Distribution. The species occurs within the natural range of its lineage; precise localities and depth preferences are documented in the taxonomic literature for Engraulidae.

Human relevance. Like many fishes, it may be of interest to fisheries, aquaculture, the aquarium trade, or conservation, depending on its abundance and distribution.