Engraulis anchoita

Abstract

This coastal to mid-continental shelf, pelagic species is widely distributed from Brazil to Argentina. It is a short-lived species with an estimated generation length of 2-4 years. Biomass fluctuates naturally with environmental conditions. It is currently commercially exploited only in Argentina. The global population is comprised of three stocks (1. southeast Brazil north of 28°S, 2. Brazil south of 28°S, Uruguay and Argentina to 41°S and 3. Argentine Patagonia between 41°S and 48°S). Abundance of the species in Brazil is stable. According to fishery independent scientific surveys, the Buenos Aires stock has a high biomass close to historical levels and it is underexploited. The Argentine population is regularly monitored and there are stringent fishing regulations in place. Fishing activity is not expected to be driving global-level declines approaching a Near Threatened or threatened level at this time. It is listed as Least Concern with a recommendation to continue to conduct research cruises to improve stock assessments. Research is also needed to better understand the observed changes in body size structure of the southern stocks.