Pronunciation: [jˈuːlat͡ʃən] (IPA) 
Eulachon is a type of fish commonly found in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. Its spelling is derived from the indigenous Chinook language, and is pronounced "yoo-LAY-chuhn" (/yuːˈleɪʃən/) with four syllables. The "eu" in Eulachon is pronounced like the "u" in "rude", and the "ch" is pronounced as a soft "sh" sound. This unique spelling and pronunciation adds to the cultural significance of the species in the region.
Eulachon, also known as oolichan or candlefish, is a small, elongated fish species that belongs to the smelt family. It is native to the coastal waters of the North Pacific, specifically found in regions like Alaska, British Columbia, and Washington. The term "eulachon" is derived from a Chinook Jargon word meaning "sardine," reflecting its resemblance to the sardine and herring species.
Typically measuring around 15-25 centimeters in length, eulachon have a distinctive silver or metallic-blue body coloration. They are anadromous fish, meaning they migrate from the ocean to rivers and streams for spawning. Eulachon are known for their extraordinary oil content, with up to 15-20% of their body weight being oil. This high oil content has earned them the name "candlefish" as their oily flesh is traditionally used as a source of fuel for lamps.
Eulachon are a significant species for indigenous communities and have been an important cultural and subsistence resource for centuries. They are highly valued for their oil, which is used in various culinary and medicinal purposes. Historically, eulachon runs were eagerly awaited events, as their arrival was seen as a sign of spring and abundance. However, in recent times, eulachon populations have faced significant declines due to habitat degradation, overfishing, and climate change, resulting in conservation efforts to protect this species and its critical role in the ecosystem and indigenous cultures.
The word "Eulachon" has its origins in the indigenous languages of the Pacific Northwest coastal peoples, specifically belonging to the Tsimshian (also spelled Ts'msyen) First Nations of Canada. The Tsimshian language, which is part of the Tsimshianic language family, includes several dialects spoken by different Tsimshian communities. In the Tsimshian language, the word for Eulachon is "oolichan".
When European explorers and settlers first encountered this fish, they transcribed the Tsimshian word "oolichan" into various spellings, including "eulachon", "ooligan", "ooliganan", and "hooligan". Over time, "eulachon" became the most commonly used term.
