This is an anadramous species whose oceanic movements are unknown. Successful hatches have been reported at salinities ranging from 7.5 ppt at 12.0 oC to 15 ppt at 17 oC. Shad spawning areas vary in depth and substrate.
Shad seem to prefer areas dominated by shallow water or broad flats with sand or gravel bottoms.
C caused extensive larval abnormalities. Successful hatches have been reported at salinities ranging from 7.5 ppt at 12.0 oC to 15 ppt at 17 oC. No eggs hatched at a salinity of 22.5 ppt. Sufficient water current veloitites are required to keep the shad eggs suspended in the water column. The scale rows between the upper angle of the gill opening and the base of the caudal fin are from 48-57. The body is moderately slender, elliptical, and compressed.