Density of larval anchovy(Engraulis japonicus,Encrasicholina punctifer,and E.heteroloba)was estimated,using the hydroacoustic method,at the mouth of large-mesh wingsof trawlnet during the fishing operation.The biomass of the larvae in the water trawledwas estimated,and compared with the catches in the cod net to determine the dispellingrate.On the average 37% of larval biomass were dispelled during the fishing operation.The dispelling rate increased with the decrease in size of the larvae.This suggested thatinstead of direct escaping,the filtration of small,feeble larvae through large meshes ofthe wings is a primary mechanism of the dispelling phenomenon.