Historic Data On Past Alosine Forage Populations Supporting Predatory Stocks

Anadromous alosine populations have dropped to historic lows along the Eastern seaboard of the United States. These fishes represent a historically importance source of food for the larger predatory fish of both economically and biologically important species. We present a review of stock assessments and historic literature and data on the population levels of the past for American Shad, Alewife, and Blueback herring in comparison to historic predatory stock levels.