This database contains icthyoplankton data collected as part of the California Cooperative Oceanic Fisheries Investigations (CalCOFI) program and other cruises designed to assess the status coastal pelagic species and the California Current ecosystem from 1951 to present. The primary data are eggs and larvae captured in ring or bongo nets (oblique tows), Calvet or paravet nets (vertical tows), and manta nets (surface tows).

Fish captured in trawls by the SWFSC Fisheries Resources Division during surveys for coastal pelagic species. Most tows were targeted for sardine using a Nordic trawl on the surface at night. The database includes identification to various taxonomic levels depending on species, length frequencies, biomass data, and some age data for sardine based on analysis of otoliths.

Pelagic eggs collected using the CUFES during cruises conducted by the SWFSC Fisheries Resources Division from 1996 to present. Data are typically collected every 30 min while the ship is underway. Eggs are identified as Pacific sardine, northern anchovy, jack mackerel, hake, squid, or other fish eggs. Some additional species identifications have been noted in the comments.

This file contains a description of each station and various information such as date, time, location and etc., listed under the field headings.