Anchovies are found in all seas from about 60°N to 50°S. They are typically marine fishes but can also be found in brackish and freshwater. Most of them inhabit shallow coastal waters and estuaries. They frequently occur in large schools. Most species feed on small planktonic animals either by locating individual prey or by filter-feeding.
There are 17 genera and about 145 species of Engraulidae worldwide. Malaysia has about 6 genera and about 32 species.