Spawning ecology of the European anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) in the Strait of Sicily: linking variations of zooplankton prey, fish density, growth, and reproduction in an upwelling system

•Habitat differences prior and during the spawning peak affected the anchovy biology.•During the spawning peak, the habitat showed a more productive upwelling system.•Upwelling conditions were a positive driver of anchovy growth and reproduction.•Food availability during the peak of spawning affected reproductive condition.•Average Fish packing density appeared to affect both egg production and somatic growth.