A small marine fish species endemic to the North Pacific Ocean, characterized by its elongated, slender body and important role in marine ecosystems as a forage species.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Coastal marine environments, sandy or soft bottom substrates in temperate and subarctic regions, typically found at depths between 0-200 meters along the Pacific coastlines of North America and Asia.
Ecological Role
Critical prey species for marine predators including seabirds, marine mammals, and larger fish, serving as a crucial link in marine food webs and supporting marine biodiversity.
Morphology
- SKIN COAT Smooth, cycloid scales with silvery-translucent appearance
- LIMBS WINGS Streamlined body with small fins, including a forked caudal fin optimized for rapid swimming
- HEAD SENSORY Small terminal mouth, large eyes adapted for detecting plankton and small marine organisms
- BODY STRUCTURE Elongated, slim body with a pointed snout, typically 15-20 cm in length, with a silver-gray coloration
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
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