Lobed River Mullet

Often referred to as ludong or banak, the Lobed River Mullet is a freshwater fish prized for its distinct scent and flavor when prepared. Fully grown adults typically weigh between 0.25 and 2 kg. While some claim it is unique to specific river systems in the Philippines, such as the Cagayan and Santa-Abra, records suggest it may also inhabit Fiji, New Caledonia, and Celebes. Within these rivers, the fish favors deep pools and turbulent rapids where it can find the filamentous algae that make up its entire diet.

This species follows a catadromous life cycle, meaning it must travel to the ocean to reproduce. Between October and December, adults swim downstream to spawn in salt water before returning to upstream ponds. Young fish and adults then migrate back up the rivers from December through February. Because the fish only appears seasonally and is quite difficult to capture, it commands a very high price in local markets.

Heavy fishing pressure is the primary threat to this fish, driven by its high commercial value. Reports indicate that annual catches are shrinking and the individual fish being caught are becoming smaller. To protect the population, local regulations now ban the capture or sale of the mullet during its migration months. Specific equipment, including certain cast nets and fish pots, is also prohibited in the Cagayan and Santa-Abra systems during this time to prevent further decline.