There are only two living species of Mooneyes, both restricted to North America. There are fossil species from North America and China. Mooneyes look similar to Shads and Herrings, but they do not have a serrated keel (belly). Mooneyes have deep and compressed bodies and are silver in color. Mooneyes have a single dorsal fin and long anal fin. They also have a distinct lateral line and well established teeth on their jaws and tongue. Mooneyes are primarily surface feeders and are known to inhabit clear, fast flowing waters. Juveniles are more benthic than the adults and the two species overall do not scavenge much at night.