They are a crucial food source for predatory fish (striped bass, bluefish, weakfish), seabirds, and marine mammals (whales, dolphins).
They have a silvery, compressed body with a distinct deep blue-green back and a single black spot behind the gill cover, followed by smaller spots. Size: Generally, they grow to about
Due to their large-scale filtering, they play a critical role in managing water quality and controlling algae blooms in bays and estuaries. 3. Commercial and Industrial Uses
Brevoortia tyrannis is not generally consumed directly by humans but is highly valued for industrial purposes.
), used in dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, and aquaculture feed.
They are harvested using purse seine nets, primarily in the Mid-Atlantic region.