Difference Between Anchovies and Sardines

Anchovies and sardines are small fishes. Though they are said to be related to each other, they are different in many ways such as their physical characteristics.

Let us first discuss Anchovies. These silver fishes are largely found in Indian, Atlantic and Pacific oceans. It can also been seen that some Anchovies live in freshwater also. Anchovies, which are less than six inches in length, have a silvery strip going down the edges. Though there are many varieties of this fish, the Mediterranean variety Engraulis is considered to be the true Anchovies.

Anchovies travel in groups and even are seen mingling with other small fish. It has a gaping mouth, pointed snout and also blue or green bodies. They feed on the plankton and are food for other large fish. Anchovies have somewhat oily flavour and are salty.

Now talking of Sardines, it is the common name for a wide variety of fishes such as sprat, herring and pilchards. Sardines are seen in southern and northern waters, estuaries and in inter-tidal zones. Unlike Anchovies, sardines have large mouth and and a protruding snout. Just like Anchovies, sardine also feed on planktons and are food of large fish. Sardine has an oily flesh body and is dark.

Both these fishes are considered to be healthy.  Both Anchovies and Sardine are loaded with Omega 3 acids, which make it one of the most sought after fishes. Sardines and Anchovies are both migratory.

Summary

1. Anchovies. are largely found in Indian, Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Sardines are seen in southern and northern waters, estuaries and in inter-tidal zones.
2. Anchovies, which are less than six inches in length, have a silvery strip going down the edges. Sardine has an oily flesh body and is dark.
3. Anchovies have a gaping mouth, pointed snout and also blue or green bodies. Sardines have large mouth and a protruding snout.
4. Though there are many varieties of anchovies, the Mediterranean variety Engraulis is considered to be the true Anchovies. Sardines, it is the common name for a wide variety of fishes such as sprat, herring and pilchards.
5. Both Anchovies and Sardine are rich in Omega 3 acids, which make it one of the most sought after fishes. Sardines and Anchovies are both migratory.
6. Both the anchovies and sardines feed on planktons and are food of large fish.