Osmerus eperlanus (Linnaeus, 1758)

Taxonomy and Naming

The European smelt, also called simply smelt, has the scientific name Osmerus eperlanus, and is a fish species belonging to the family Osmeridae.

Coastal Distribution

As a marine fish, it inhabits European coastal waters ranging from the Baltic Sea to the Bay of Biscay.

Freshwater Morph

A distinct freshwater form, called Binnenstint ('Inland smelt') in Germany, is commonly found in larger lakes across Northern Europe.

Spawning Migration

To spawn over sandy areas, smelt gather and swim in the underflows of strong currents.

Spawning Period

Spawning occurs from late February through March, when water temperatures are above 9 °C (48 °F).

Fecundity

A single female smelt can produce up to 40,000 eggs.

Post-Spawning Mortality

Mass mortality of smelt commonly occurs after spawning is complete.

Diet

Smelt feed primarily on small planktonic crabs, benthic animals, and even their own young.