Menhaden

Menhaden are a group of small, oily fish from the genus Brevoortia and Ethmidium. They are part of the herring family, Clupeidae. Menhaden are known for their high oil content and are often used in the production of fish oil and fish meal. They are also a popular bait fish for larger species such as striped bass and bluefish.

Biology

Menhaden are small fish, typically measuring between 12 and 15 inches in length. They have a silver-blue coloration with a darker back and lighter belly. Menhaden have a single dorsal fin and a deeply forked tail. They are filter feeders, consuming plankton and other small organisms from the water column.

Distribution and habitat

Menhaden are found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of North America, from Nova Scotia to Florida and west to Texas. They inhabit both coastal waters and estuaries, often forming large schools near the surface of the water.

Commercial use

Menhaden are commercially important due to their high oil content. They are harvested for use in the production of fish oil, which is used in a variety of products including dietary supplements, animal feed, and industrial lubricants. Menhaden are also processed into fish meal, which is used as a protein source in animal feed.

Conservation

Overfishing of menhaden has led to declines in their populations. Efforts are being made to manage and conserve menhaden stocks, including the implementation of catch limits and the promotion of sustainable fishing practices.

See also

• Fish oil
• Fish meal
• Overfishing

Menhaden Resources
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