Pronunciation: [ɐmˈɛɹɪkən smˈɛlt] (IPA) 
The word "American Smelt" is spelled as /əˈmɛrɪkən smɛlt/. The "American" part is pronounced with a schwa sound followed by the stress on the second syllable, just like in the word "happen". The "Smelt" part is pronounced with a short "e" sound followed by the "m" and "l" consonant sounds, and ends with a "t" sound. The term refers to a small, silvery fish that is found in freshwater and saltwater bodies in North America.
American smelt, scientifically known as Osmerus mordax, is a small marine and anadromous fish species native to the North Atlantic Ocean and neighboring freshwater systems across North America. This translucent fish adopts a slender, elongated body shape, typically measuring around 6 to 9 inches in length. It is characterized by its silvery-blue coloration and a streamlined physique, equipped with a deeply forked tail and an extended lower jaw. American smelt possess a delicate, silver-scaled appearance, aiding in their swift movements and agility.
These fish are known for their remarkable spawning habits, as they migrate from marine environments into freshwater systems during the spring season. They undertake these journeys to lay their small, adhesive eggs in suitable gravels of freshwater streams and rivers. Following the spawning process, the adults return to saltwater habitats, while the eggs hatch and the juveniles grow within the freshwater environment.
The American smelt is recognized for its ecological significance, serving as a vital link within the food web. They are preyed upon by various marine and freshwater predators, including larger fish, birds, and marine mammals. Additionally, they contribute to recreational and commercial fisheries, as their abundance often results in them being harvested as bait or for direct consumption.
Due to habitat alterations, pollution, and overfishing, populations of American smelt have experienced varying degrees of decline in some regions. Conservation efforts have been implemented to safeguard their ecosystems and ensure sustainable fishing practices to maintain their critical position within the ecosystem.
The word "American smelt" is derived from two main sources:
1. American: The term "American" refers to the United States of America or its people. It comes from the Latin word "Americānus", which is derived from the name of the Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci, who first recognized that the lands discovered by Christopher Columbus were a separate continent. Over time, the term "American" evolved to specifically refer to the people, culture, and things associated with the United States.
2. Smelt: The term "smelt" is a Middle English word that originally meant "to melt" or "to fuse". Its origins can be traced back to Old English and Proto-Germanic languages. In the context of fish, "smelt" refers to a small, silver-colored fish belonging to the family Osmeridae.
