Capelin Capelin is a key forage fish in Faxaflói Bay, providing critical sustenance for many marine predators, including seabirds, larger fish and humpback whales. Image Key Facts Scientific Name Mallotus villosus Family Osmeridae IUCN Status Not Evaluated Length 20-25 cm Weight Depth Range Diet Phytoplankton, Crustaceans, Small fish Lifespan 5 years Predators Larger fish, Humpback Whales, Black-legged Kittiwake