Squaretail Mullet

The squaretail mullet (Ellochelon vaigiensis), commonly referred to as the diamondscale mullet, is a distinguished member of the Mugilidae family. This species, endemic to the Indo-Pacific region, is uniquely represented by the monospecific genus Ellochelon.

The squaretail mullet exhibits an olive-brown coloration on the dorsal side, transitioning to silvery flanks with a white or pale yellow abdomen. Notably, it features six longitudinal stripes along its sides, which are the result of darker markings on the scales. These scales possess darkened edges, imparting a subtle chequered appearance to its flanks. The iris is adorned with yellow patches. The fish's fins are predominantly yellowish, with dark margins that provide contrast, while the caudal fin is distinctly yellow. In smaller specimens, the pectoral fin is entirely black, although the lower portion becomes yellowish as the fish matures.

Geographically, the squaretail mullet ranges from the 🌊 Red Sea and the East African coast, extending southwards to 🇲🇿 Mozambique. Its distribution continues eastwards through the Indo-Pacific, reaching 🇳🇨 New Caledonia (🇫🇷 Overseas France) and the Great Barrier Reef, and extends northward to southern 🇯🇵 Japan.

This species inhabits lagoons, estuaries, sheltered sandy shorelines, and coastal creeks, and is known to venture into freshwater environments, having been recorded as far as 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) upstream in rivers. However, their typical range does not extend beyond tidal influences. Squaretail mullets often form large groups among mangroves, with juveniles frequently observed in rice paddies and mangrove areas. Their diet comprises phytoplankton, algae, and detritus, with spawning occurring at sea; the resulting eggs are pelagic and non-adhesive.

While smaller individuals of this species are captured for use as bait, the squaretail mullet is also locally valued as a food source, sold fresh in markets along with its roe. The species is harvested using various fishing methods, including beach seines, gillnets, cast nets, and stake nets.