Pacific Sardine
NamePacific Sardine
Scientific NameSardinops sagax
Common NamesPacific Sardine, California Sardine, Pilchard
FamilyClupeidae
OriginEastern Pacific Ocean, North America (Alaska to Baja California), South America, Japan, Australia
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietomnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)1000
Max Size (Inches)16
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)50-77
pH Range7.8-8.4
Compatible SpeciesOther large, peaceful, temperate schooling fish, Tuna (in very large public aquariums), Mackerel (in very large public aquariums)
Description
The Pacific Sardine is a schooling, pelagic fish found in temperate and subtropical waters of the Pacific Ocean. They are filter feeders, primarily consuming plankton, and play a crucial role as a forage fish in marine ecosystems. Due to their large size, schooling requirements, and specialized diet, they are rarely kept in home aquariums and are primarily seen in large public aquariums.
