The Atlantic thread herring, also known as Opisthonema oglinum, is a species of fish native to the Atlantic Ocean. It belongs to the Clupeidae family and is commonly found along the coasts of the Western Atlantic, particularly in the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.
These thread herring are distinguishable by their elongated and slender body, which grows to an average length of 20 to 30 centimeters. They have a silver-gray coloration on their upper body surface, while their belly is usually white. This fish species also possesses a dark mark that extends from the base of the pectoral fin to the pelvic fin.
Atlantic thread herrings are known for their schooling behavior, often forming large groups near the surface of the water. They are predominantly filter feeders, consuming planktonic organisms such as copepods and larvae. Due to their abundance and widespread distribution, they serve as an important prey species for a variety of larger marine predators, including larger fish, birds, and marine mammals.
These herring usually undertake spawning migrations during warmer months, moving to coastal areas and estuaries to reproduce. After fertilization, the female Atlantic thread herring releases numerous buoyant eggs into the water column. The eggs will then hatch into larvae, which will eventually grow and embark on their separate journeys.
Given their ecological and economic significance, Atlantic thread herrings are often targeted by commercial and recreational fisheries. They are commonly used for bait and for human consumption, either processed into fresh, canned, or smoked fish products.
