What is "sardinella"

Sardinella is a genus of fishes in the family Clupeidae, the herrings and sardines. This genus currently contains 21 recognized species. They are abundant in warmer waters of the tropical and subtropical oceans.

Sardinella species are generally coastal, schooling, marine fish. Juveniles are often found in lagoons and estuaries, and adults are more common off the coast.

Species are distinguished by their ranges and by specific body features, but they are often confused with one another. Fish of the genus have seven to 14 striped markings along the scales of the top of the head. The paddle-shaped supramaxilla bones are characteristic; they separate Sardinella from other genera and their shapes help distinguish species. They have paired predorsal scales and enlarged fin rays.