It has a prominent, protruding lower jaw that extends beyond the upper jaw, and unlike some similar species, it possesses teeth on its tongue and both jaws.
The belly has a distinct "keel" of modified, saw-toothed scales called scutes. alosa chrysocloris
It features a blue-green to gray back that abruptly transitions to silvery-white sides and a white belly. Some individuals exhibit a golden-green or blue reflection. It has a prominent, protruding lower jaw that
