Red eye sardinef

Introduction: Red-eye sardines (Etrumeus teres) are almost cylindrical in shape with elongated bodies and smooth round bellies. They have a single, spineless dorsal fin. Although they are usually confined to coastal waters to depths of up to 150m, they are an abundant, pelagic species. Huge shoals congregate with pilchards (Sardinops ocellatus). Etrumeus means 'round belly' teres 'of the land'. Red-eye is derived from the changing appearance once captured.

Distribution: Orange River mouth, Luderitz, Walvis Bay and Swakopmund.

Diet: Cocopods, crab larvae, shrimps and krill.

Colouration: Blue-green upperparts with silvery flanks.

Breeding: Spawning is during spring. Large amounts of eggs are produced.

Max size: 25cm