Alosidae
Alosidae is a family of ray-finned fishes that comprises the herrings, shads, and alewives. These fish are commonly found in marine, brackish, and freshwater environments throughout the world. Members of the Alosidae family are known for their silvery scales and deep bodies, with many species displaying a distinctive forked tail.
Common Names
The common names for fish in the Alosidae family vary depending on the species, but some of the most frequently used include:
- Herring
- Shad
- Alewife
- Gizzard shad
- Threadfin shad
Characteristics
Alosidae species share several key characteristics, including:
- Slender, fusiform body shape
- Silvery scales
- Forked tail
- Small, cycloid scales
- Mouth usually terminal with small teeth
- A single dorsal fin
- An adipose fin present in some species
- Gill rakers numerous and fine
Environments
Alosidae species are highly adaptable and can be found in a wide range of environments, including:
- Marine waters, both coastal and oceanic
- Brackish waters, such as estuaries and bays
- Freshwater rivers and lakes
Many species are anadromous, meaning they migrate from saltwater to freshwater to spawn. Others are strictly freshwater or marine.