(Mallotus villosus)
Capelin (or "caplin" in Newfoundland) are slender little fishes. They have a lower jaw which projects strongly and a large adipose fin (the fin in front of the tail). The male capelin has an anal fin with a convex base and scales in 2 bands along the side. The female capelin has an anal fin with a straight base and all its scales are rounded. In both sexes the scales are small. Capelin are economically important forage fish. They provide food for seabirds, other fishes, and for marine mammals. Capelin can be caught in cast nets and drip nets, but a variety of gear is used. They are extremely abundant in Newfoundland and Labrador. Capelin spawn in shallow rocky waters near beaches around Newfoundland. The "caplin roll" is a popular event along beaches in Newfoundland during June and July.
