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American Shad

Alosa sapidissima
Managed by: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Regions
Florida
Protected status
None
Also known as
—

Species Profile

Florida saltwater profile data (FWC). Availability and detail varies by species.

FWC
Size
Up to 20 inches (12 pounds)
Similar species
Other herrings (menhaden, which are often referred to as “shad,” have a rounder lower jaw tip; American shad is an east coast species) Size: Up to 20 inches (12 pounds)
Appearance
  • Green or greenish-blue back with a metallic luster
  • Silvery sides and white belly (colors darken when fish enters freshwater)
  • Belly with scutes (bone-like projections)
  • One or more dark spots in a row behind operculum
  • Lower jaw with pointed tip that fits into v-shaped notch in upper jaw
Habitat
Occur from rivers to offshore waters
Behavior
Enter freshwater to spawn; young remain in freshwater, then move out to sea with age; feed on plankton; important baitfish
Additional information
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Sources
Image credit: © Diane Rome Peebles