Skipjack herring

Skipjack Herring (Alosa chrysochloris) is a species of clupeid fish, native to fresh and brackish waters of the central and eastern regions of North America. They are also known as Blueback Herring in some regions.

Taxonomy

The Skipjack Herring belongs to the genus Alosa, which includes several other species of herrings and shads. The species was first described by Rafinesque in 1820. The scientific name Alosa chrysochloris is derived from Greek, with Alosa meaning shad-like and chrysochloris meaning golden-green, referring to the fish's distinctive coloration.

Description

Skipjack Herring are medium-sized fish, typically measuring 30-50 cm in length and weighing 1-2 kg. They have a streamlined, silvery body with a deep blue or greenish back. The belly is white and the sides are silver. The mouth is terminal and the lower jaw projects slightly. They have a single dorsal fin and a deeply forked tail.

Distribution and Habitat

Skipjack Herring are found in the Mississippi River basin, from Minnesota to Louisiana, and east to the Ohio River and Tennessee River basins. They inhabit large rivers and reservoirs, preferring areas with strong currents. They are also found in brackish waters near the Gulf of Mexico.

Diet

Skipjack Herring are planktivorous, feeding primarily on zooplankton and small invertebrates. They also consume small fish and fish eggs.

Reproduction

Skipjack Herring are anadromous, migrating upstream to spawn in fresh water. Spawning occurs in the spring and early summer, with females laying up to 300,000 eggs. The eggs are semi-buoyant and drift downstream, hatching after about two days.

Commercial Importance

Skipjack Herring are commercially harvested for use as bait in sport fishing, particularly for catfish. They are also used in the production of fish meal and oil.

Conservation Status

The Skipjack Herring is currently listed as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN Red List. However, populations have declined in some areas due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution.

See Also

• American Shad
• Alewife
• Hickory Shad