Yelloweye Mullet (Aldrichetta forsteri)
Last Modified: 15-1-2022 17:47
© Christopher Cookson License this image
Yellow eyed mullet or Aua / kātaha (Aldrichetta forsteri) are a small fish common in harbours and estuaries around New Zealand and eastern Australia. Yellow eyed mullet are sexually mature at around 20cm in size, but can grow up to 50cm, although 30cm is a more common size. Although small, the fish are edible, and are also popular bait fish. They are omnivores, feeding primarily on algae, but prepared to take a range of baits.
The species can be present in large schools, and is fairly short lived, but also having a high growth rate. The fish are silvery, long and slender, with a darker upper side, and a distinctive yellow eye.
This example was caught and released at Robin Hood Bay.
Image Date: 3/1/2022
Photographer: Christopher Cookson
Location: Latitude: -41.355404 Longitude: 174.07579