Mugil bananensis (Banana mullet)

(Source: Fishbase, 2013)

Scientific Name: Mugil bananensis

Common Name: Banana mullet

Genus: Mugil

Species: babanensis

Ijaw Name: Pina-kopio

Family: Mugilidae

Habitat: Rivers

Gear Type: Fishing Nets

Season of Occurrence: Rainy season

Description: The Banana Mullet, is a species of mullet that thrives primarily in coastal waters, estuaries, and lagoons, and can tolerate salinities up to 73‰. This species is characterized by a moderately stout body, a rounded cross-section, and a distinctively large head with an almost flat interorbital space. Its upper lip has a single comb-like row of tiny recurved teeth, and its lower lip is either toothless or has a minimal row of minute ciliiform teeth. Banana mullet often grows up to 40 cm in total length, with an average common length around 30 cm. It is a pelagic spawner, meaning its eggs are free-floating rather than adhesive. The diet primarily consists of phytoplankton and detritus, contributing to its ecological role in nutrient cycling in estuarine and coastal systems. The species is of commercial importance in fisheries, particularly in regions where mullet is a staple.