The early life histories of anadromous herrings (Alosa species) in tidal freshwater are poorly understood. Knowledge of the ecology of anadromous herring larvae in tidal freshwater ecosystems is important in order to understand factors which cause population fluctuations, to mitigate potential adverse effects of modifications to these systems, and to facilitate restoration of populations. This investigation was undertaken to examine the distribution and relative abundance of larval river herring (alewife, Alosa pseudoharengus, and blueback herring, A. aestivalis) and their potential zooplankton prey in tidal freshwater of the Pamunkey River, Virginia, and to quantify growth of larvae between locations that may differ in prey availability within the study area
