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The mooneyes resemble herrings (Clupeidae) but are distinguished by the lack of sharp, spiny scutes down the midline of the belly; the presence of enlarged teeth on the tongue; long, straight jaw bones; and atypical scale sructure. There are two living species in the Mooneye family, occurring only in the fresh waters of eastern North America. The mooneye is the only representative of the family in the Great Lakes basin. It was formerly found in the open waters of larger lakes and streams. Its sister species, the goldeye, Hiodon alosoides of the Mississippi basin, differs in having the dorsal fin beginning farther back than the anal.
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