Chelon richardsonii (Smith 1846)

Trypanosoma Infection. Parasitic infestations (protozoa, worms, etc.)

Catadromous. Migrating from freshwater to the sea to spawn, e.g., European eels. Subdivision of diadromous. Migrations should be cyclical and predictable and cover more than 100 km.

Dorsal spines (total): 5; Dorsal soft rays (total): 8 - 9; Analspines: 3; Analsoft rays: 9

Found in coastal waters, mainly off rocky points and sandy beaches; may enter estuaries which serve as nursery areas. Feeds mainly on diatoms and detritus, but also on planktonic crustaceans. Presence of sharp pointed teeth that enable the species to select fine material (Ref. 74863).

Found in coastal waters, mainly off rocky points and sandy beaches; may enter estuaries which serve as nursery areas (Ref. 27121). Feed mainly on diatoms and detritus, but also on planktonic crustaceans (Ref. 27121). Oviparous, eggs are pelagic and non-adhesive (Ref. 205). 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 (Ref. 124050).

fisheries: commercial; aquarium: public aquariums