Is Smelts kosher?

About Smelts

Family Osmeridae. Including: Smelts (Osmerus species); Capelin (Malotus villosus); Eullachon (Thaleichthys pacificus) The smelt, cucumber smelt, or European smelt (Osmerus eperlanus) is a small species of fish in the family Osmeridae, native to coastal areas in Western Europe. They are a regional specialty in some countries, and are also known as sparling within Scotland. The smelt, cucumber smelt, or European smelt (Osmerus eperlanus) is a small species of fish in the family Osmeridae, native to coastal areas in Western Europe. They are a regional specialty in some countries, and are also known as sparling within Scotland. Description The body of the European smelt is long and slim with a pointed head, with the dorsal fin behind the pectoral fin. The back of the fish is olive green, and the underside is white. The smelt has a distinctive silver stripe on its flanks. Its length is typically around 13 cm (5.1 in) when it first reaches maturity, and its average length is approximately 16.5 cm (6.5 in). The largest individuals can reach up to 45 cm (17.7 in) in length. They have a distinctive smell, reminiscent of cucumber. Distribution and habitat The European smelt inhabits the western coasts of Europe, including the Baltic Sea, living in large lakes and estuaries in various Nordic countries but can be found as far south as the north-west of Spain. Smelt survive best in pelagic areas of oligotrophic lakes, but can inhabit much more polluted habitats, such as the lower Elbe river, and are tolerant of a wide salinity range. Within Scotland...