South African mullet
📖 Overview
Found in coastal waters, mainly off rocky points and sandy beaches; may enter estuaries which serve as nursery areas . Feed mainly on diatoms and detritus, but also on planktonic crustaceans . Oviparous, eggs are pelagic and non-adhesive . A primary target species of the inshore net fishery and much of it is sold salted and dried and known as 'bokkoms'. It is also an important exhibit species in public aquaria in South Africa. It is parasitised by the monogenean Gyrodactylus molweni on the external body surface .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 5; Dorsal soft rays (total): 8 - 9; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 9. : fusiform / normal.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for South African mullet is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for South African mullet is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; freshwater; brackish; demersal; catadromous . Subtropical; 16°S - 36°S Southeast Atlantic: South African coastal waters from Walfish Bay to Natal.
🌿 Ecology
diatoms and detritus, but also on planktonic crustaceans (Ref
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Chelon Richardsonii is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked — Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18.2 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 681 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for South African mullet has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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