Elops smithi like other species in its genus, has a long, slender, round body covered with silvery scales.

The larvae, which are transparent and laterally compressed, are dispersed inshore and enter embayments, where they reside for two to three years before moving offshore.

[10] Subadults move into the lower reaches of the embayments, eventually leaving in association with maturation for offshore, marine habitats.

[4] Recreational landings occurring in Puerto Rico should be attributed to Elops smithi where this species is considered a popular sportfish.

Elops species use estuarine areas and hypersaline lagoons; changes in the quality of these habitats may affect this genus' population dynamics.