Allis shad

Common Name: Allis shad

Scientific Name: *Alosa alosa

Description: Allis shad (Alosa alosa) are anadromous, and have a pelagic-sea life mainly inshore along the coast migrating to the higher, middle watercourse of rivers to spawn. Originally, the distribution of Allis shad extended to the Atlantic coast from Norway to Morocco. Allis shad have declined across Europe and are now absent from many rivers where they once flourished and supported thriving fisheries. Allis shad are still caught and eaten in parts of France and some other European countries. Currently, this species is classified as vulnerable because of the reduction in its distribution and the threats to its freshwater habitat due to dams, pollution and deterioration of the spawning grounds.

OSPAR Regions where it occurs: II, III, IV

OSPAR Regions where under threat and/or in decline: II, III, IV

What is the latest status of the feature?

The status assessment describes the latest changes in distribution, abundance and range of the feature, as well as any changes in the threats and pressures impacting the feature. The status assessments are updated regularly and inform OSPAR’s consideration of the effectiveness of the measures and actions that have been adopted and implemented by Contracting Parties.

Why is this feature included on the OSPAR List?
What protective measures and actions has OSPAR committed to taking?
What actions have been implemented by OSPAR?