Clupea harengus harengus, commonly known as the Atlantic herring, is a species of small pelagic fish belonging to the Clupeidae family. It is widely distributed across the North Atlantic Ocean, from the coast of North America to Europe.
Atlantic herring have streamlined bodies that are typically silvery blue on the upper surface and silver-plated on the sides, with a white belly. They have a single dorsal fin located near the middle of their body and a forked tail fin. These fish can grow to lengths of up to 45 centimeters and weigh around 1 kilogram.
Atlantic herring are highly migratory and form large schools, often comprising thousands of individuals. They are known for their ecological importance as a prey species, serving as a vital food source for many marine predators including birds, mammals, and larger fish such as cod. They primarily feed on plankton, small crustaceans, and various invertebrates.
Commercially, Atlantic herring is extensively fished for its flesh, which is commonly used in human consumption, either fresh, smoked, or canned. Their eggs, known as roe or caviar, are also highly prized. The fish is also utilized for fishmeal and fish oil production. Due to its abundance and commercial significance, Atlantic herring has been subject to significant management and conservation efforts to ensure its sustainability and avoid overfishing.
