Anchovies
Small, shimmering fish that travel in large schools, anchovies are vital players in Crete’s marine food chain and a beautiful sight in clear waters.
European Anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus)
Size: Typically 10–15 cm in length
Appearance: Slender, silver body with a slightly darker back and large eyes
Habitat: Coastal waters, often near the surface in large schools
Behavior: Highly social, anchovies move in dense shoals for protection and feeding. They migrate seasonally and are most active at dawn and dusk.
Notes: An important species in the Mediterranean food web, anchovies feed on plankton and serve as prey for larger fish, seabirds, and dolphins. Often seen flashing beneath the surface when sunlight hits their silvery bodies.
Anchovies are abundant in the waters surrounding Crete, often seen swimming in large, shimmering schools that dart gracefully through the crystal-clear seas. These small, silver fish are a vital part of the local marine ecosystem, acting as a key food source for larger predators such as groupers, tunas, and seabirds. Their quick, synchronized movements create a mesmerizing underwater ballet that adds life and energy to the vibrant seascape. Anchovies thrive in Crete’s clean, nutrient-rich Mediterranean waters, making their presence a clear indicator of the area's ecological health. For divers and snorkelers, spotting a swirling school of anchovies is always a thrilling reminder of the rich biodiversity beneath the surface.