what is an anchovy

An anchovy is a small, common forage fish of the family Engraulidae. They are members of the family Engraulidae and are called "forage fish". Anchovies are usually classified as oily fish and are found in marine waters, but several will enter brackish water, and some in South America are restricted to fresh water. There are more than 140 species of anchovies placed in 17 genera, and they are found in the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans, and in the Black Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. The European anchovy is abundant in the Mediterranean, particularly in the Alboran Sea, Aegean Sea, and the Black Sea. Anchovies are similar to sardines, but they have some freshwater varieties and those that live in brackish water. Anchovies are used in many cuisines and are often used as a flavoring ingredient in Caesar salad dressing, Worcestershire sauce, and pizza toppings.