Sillaginidae

FAO Sillaginid Species Catalogue Cover

Sillago chondropus

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Sillago macrolepis

Sillaginopsis panijus

Sillago ingenuua

Sillaginidae distribution

Sillaginidae, commonly known as whitings, are a family of bony fishes that belong to the order Perciformes, a diverse group of ray-finned fish that includes many other well-known families such as snappers, groupers, and mackerels. This family is characterized by its elongated body, small mouth, and the presence of two dorsal fins. Sillaginidae are found in the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the coasts of Africa to Japan, and south to Australia. They inhabit sandy and muddy bottoms in coastal waters, estuaries, and lagoons where they feed on worms, crustaceans, and small fish.

Description

Members of the Sillaginidae family have slender, elongated bodies that can reach up to 70 cm in length, although most species are much smaller. They have a distinctive lateral line system that helps them detect vibrations in the water, aiding in their search for prey. Their coloration is generally sandy or silvery, allowing them to blend in with the bottom substrates of their habitats.

Habitat and Distribution

Sillaginidae are demersal fish, meaning they live and feed on or near the bottom of seas or lakes. They prefer sandy or muddy substrates where they can easily camouflage themselves. These fish are most commonly found in shallow, inshore waters, including estuaries and lagoons, which offer abundant food sources and protection from predators. Their distribution includes the Indo-Pacific region, with a range extending from the eastern coast of Africa, through southern Asia, to Japan, and down to the northern and eastern coasts of Australia.

Diet

The diet of Sillaginidae primarily consists of benthic organisms, including polychaete worms, small crustaceans, and occasionally small fish. They use their sensitive lateral line to detect prey in the substrate, then use their small mouths to extract and ingest the food.

Reproduction

Sillaginidae are known for their unique reproductive strategies. Many species are oviparous, with females laying eggs that are then fertilized externally by the males. The eggs are often adhesive, sticking to the substrate or vegetation until they hatch. Some species exhibit parental care, with either the male or female guarding the eggs until they hatch.

Fisheries and Conservation

Several species within the Sillaginidae family are of significant commercial importance, especially in Southeast Asia and Australia, where they are targeted by both commercial and recreational fishers. They are caught using a variety of methods, including trawling, seining, and line fishing. Despite their economic importance, most species of Sillaginidae are not considered to be at risk of extinction. However, habitat degradation and overfishing pose potential threats to some populations, necessitating the implementation of sustainable fishing practices and habitat protection measures.

Taxonomy

The family Sillaginidae is part of the order Perciformes, which is one of the largest orders of fish. The family itself is divided into several genera, including Sillago, the most well-known and diverse genus, which contains the majority of species identified as whitings.

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