Fin's Fish Guide
The Blueback glut herring (Alosa aestivalis) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The blueback shad (Alosa aestivalis) is a migratory herring of the family Clupeidae from the western Atlantic. The species has a laterally compressed, silvery body with a conspicuous blue-green back and usually a dark shoulder spot, and reaches about 40 cm. It is an anadromous species: adults live in the sea, often far offshore, and migrate up rivers in spring to spawn. They form schools and feed on zooplankton. The species is an important commercial and bait fish, but has declined sharply owing to overfishing, dams and habitat loss and is assessed as Vulnerable (VU).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blueback glut herring?
The Blueback glut herring has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Anadromous migratory fish with a blue-green back; strongly declined due to dams and fishing (VU).
Where does the Blueback glut herring live?
The Blueback glut herring lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Rivers, estuaries and coastal waters of the western Atlantic.
How big does the Blueback glut herring get?
The Blueback glut herring grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 28 cm.
Is the Blueback glut herring dangerous to humans?
No, the Blueback glut herring is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Blueback glut herring edible?
Yes, the Blueback glut herring is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Alosa
More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the Blueback glut herring?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blueback glut herring is one of 12,519 species in the app.