Species Profiles: Life Histories and Environmental Requirements of Coastal Fishes and Invertebrates (South Atlantic): Alewife and Blueback Herring

摘要

Species profiles are summaries of the literature on taxonomy, life history, and environmental requirements of coastal fishes and aquatic invertebrates. They are prepared to assist with impact assessment. The alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus) and blueback herring (A. aestivalis) are morphologically and ecologically similar anadromous species of clupeids. The blueback herring is common throughout the South Atlantic Region, but the alewife occurs primarily in North Carolina and northern parts of South Carolina. These species spawn in spring in freshwater or brackish, tidally influenced portions of coastal rivers. Blueback herring initially use freshwater habitats for nursery areas, and then migrate downriver to brackish estuaries. Adults of both s pecies have broad salinity tolerances, but blueback herring appear to require access to freshwater for successful reproduction.