Characteristics of Spawning Areas of Shad, Alosa Sapidissima (Wilson) in some Virginia Streams

Abstract

In 1949 and 1950, a study of shad spawning areas by collecting eggs in plankton nets was undertaken in six Virginia rivers. The areas of maximum spawning were located in three rivers; some evidence of shad spawning was obtained in the others. The investigation included studies of environmental factors, including bottom topography, tidal currents, salinity, turbidity, and temperature. The time of spawning is described and the apparent natural mortality of eggs reported. The value of egg collections in providing information on time, location, and abundance of eggs is discussed.