0304.86.00.00 - Herrings (Clupea harengus, Clupea pallasii)

This HTS category, 0304.86.00.00, specifically classifies frozen fillets and other minced fish meat of herrings, belonging to the species *Clupea harengus* and *Clupea pallasii*. These products are characterized by being derived from herrings, which are a distinct group of pelagic fish known for their silvery appearance and schooling behavior. The "frozen" aspect indicates that the fish meat has been preserved through freezing to maintain its quality and extend its shelf life.

To distinguish this category from its siblings, it's important to note that 0304.86.00.00 is specifically for herrings, unlike the preceding sibling categories which cover other distinct types of fish such as Pacific and Atlantic salmon (0304.81), trout (0304.82), flatfish (0304.83), swordfish (0304.84.00.00), and toothfish (0304.85.00.00). Each of these sibling categories is defined by the specific species or families of fish they encompass, ensuring precise classification based on the source of the fish meat.

As a leaf node within the HTS database, 0304.86.00.00 has no further subcategories. This means that any product meeting the criteria of being a frozen fillet or minced meat of *Clupea harengus* or *Clupea pallasii* will be directly classified under this code. Classification professionals should verify the species of herring to ensure accurate application, as the HTS framework relies on the scientific identification of the fish species to differentiate between similar products.