American Shad

Alosa sapidissima

American Shad

This shad spends most of its life at sea in surface schools over the continental shelf, then runs up freshwater rivers to spawn. Once a hugely important food fish along the Atlantic coast, it travels long distances between the ocean and its spawning streams.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Clupeiformes › Alosidae › Alosa

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 158670.

FAQ

How deep does the American Shad live?
The American Shad (Alosa sapidissima) is typically found at 0–250 m.
Is the American Shad dangerous to divers?
The American Shad is harmless to divers.
How big does the American Shad get?
The American Shad grows to about 76 cm.