Here's why:
* Abundant: Herring are incredibly abundant in the ocean, forming massive schools.
* Key prey: They are a crucial food source for many larger animals, including whales, seals, tuna, cod, and even birds.
* Lower trophic level: Herring are relatively low in the food chain, feeding primarily on plankton. This means they are a plentiful source of food for many predators.
So, while they are *consumed* by many, they are not *least common* in the food chain. They are a vital part of the marine ecosystem, providing a foundation for many other species.