menhaden

Menhaden are small, oily fish found along the Atlantic coast and Gulf of Mexico, playing a vital role in marine ecosystems. They serve as essential forage for numerous larger fish, seabirds, and marine mammals, and are also harvested commercially for fish oil, protein meal, and bait. Menhaden help improve water quality by filtering plankton and organic particles from the water, supporting healthy ecosystems. Their populations are managed to sustain both ecological balance and fishing industries, making them a key species in coastal environments.