Belly with 29 to 34 scutes. Head large; a median notch in upper jaw, which distinguishes it from other similar clupeids, except Hilsa kelee; with a well developed sebaceous eyelids. Gill rakers fine and numerous, each raker with scattered asperities. Caudal fin deeply forked with minute scales. A dark blotch behind gill opening and a series of spots along flank. Colour: Metallic blue-green back that lightens to silver along the sides.