Hypomesus nipponensis

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Wakasagi Adult (70mm)

Ashino-ko don

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colspan=2 style="text-align: center; background-color: transparent" | Hypomesus nipponensis
File:Hypomesus nipponensis.jpg
Conservation status
Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)
colspan=2 style="min-width:15em; text-align: center; background-color: transparent" | Scientific classification
Missing taxonomy template ([//en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?action=edit&title=Template:taxonomy/Hypomesus&preload=Template:Taxonomy/preload fix]):	Hypomesus
Species	Template:Taxonomy/Hypomesus H. nipponensis
colspan=2 style="text-align: center; background-color: transparent" | Binomial name
Template:Taxonomy/Hypomesus Hypomesus nipponensis McAllister, 1963

Hypomesus nipponensis, commonly known as the Japanese smelt, is a species of smelt native to the coastal waters of Japan and Korea. This species is an important part of the local fisheries and is also known for its role in aquaculture.

Description

Hypomesus nipponensis is a small fish, typically reaching lengths of 15-20 cm. It has a slender, elongated body with a silvery coloration. The species is characterized by its dorsal fin located midway along the body and a forked caudal fin. The anal fin is positioned closer to the tail.

Habitat

This species inhabits coastal waters, estuaries, and freshwater lakes. It is commonly found in brackish waters where it can tolerate varying salinity levels. The Japanese smelt prefers cooler water temperatures and is often found at depths ranging from 10 to 50 meters.

Diet

Hypomesus nipponensis primarily feeds on zooplankton, small crustaceans, and insect larvae. Its diet can vary depending on the availability of food sources in its habitat.

Reproduction

The Japanese smelt spawns in the spring. Spawning typically occurs in freshwater or brackish environments where the female lays eggs on submerged vegetation or other substrates. The eggs hatch into larvae, which then migrate to coastal waters to grow and mature.

Economic Importance

Hypomesus nipponensis is a significant species for local fisheries in Japan and Korea. It is harvested for its meat, which is considered a delicacy in many regions. Additionally, this species is used in aquaculture due to its adaptability to different environments and its relatively fast growth rate.

Conservation Status

According to the IUCN Red List, Hypomesus nipponensis is classified as Least Concern. However, its populations are monitored to ensure that overfishing and habitat degradation do not threaten its numbers.

Related Pages

• Smelt
• Aquaculture
• Fisheries
• IUCN Red List

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