Small Pelagic Fish (Sardines, Horse Mackerel, and Mackerel)
Besides Black Scabbardfish, ArtesanalPesca is also responsible for the catch and processing of other species, especially small pelagic fish such as Mackerel, Sardines, and Horse Mackerel, which are highly appreciated in the national market.
Sardines, much loved by the Portuguese, belong to the Clupeidae family, usually small (10 to 15 cm in length). They are characterized by having a single dorsal fin without spines, a forked tail fin, a toothless mouth with a short jaw, and ventral scales shaped like shields. Sardine is one of the most important and emblematic species caught by the national fleet.
Horse Mackerel refers to several small fish species from the Carangidae family. They have a fusiform body, a lateral line ending in shield-shaped scales, and a layer of red muscle on the side of the body. These pelagic fish form large populations and have high nutritional and commercial value.
Mackerel is one of the most abundant species on the Portuguese coast alongside Sardines and Horse Mackerel but has traditionally had less culinary value. Nevertheless, it is rich in healthy fats, easy to prepare, and widely used in the canning industry. This medium-sized fish has a pointed head and poorly developed fins and lives from the surface down to 120 meters deep.
The vessels used to catch these species are also artisanal, and their catch is done responsibly and sustainably using purse seine nets. This fishing method is carried out at sea (never left at sea unattended), is not done on weekends or holidays, and includes a 90-day Sardine fishing moratorium at the beginning of each year.
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