Discover the diverse world of fish in the waters of Zeeland. Learn about the various species, their unique behaviors, and the important roles they play in marine ecosystems. Explore their habitats, feeding habits, and how they contribute to the underwater biodiversity in Zeeland’s seas.
Striped Red Mullet (Mullus surmuletus) – Rode Mul Taxonomy: The Striped Red Mullet belongs to the Mullidae family. This family includes fish known for their distinctive whiskers near the chin. Species: The Striped Red Mullet can grow up to 30 cm in length and has a slender body with a unique coloration. Reproduction: They reproduce…
Lumpsucker (Cyclopterus lumpus) – Snotolf Taxonomy: The Lumpsucker belongs to the Cyclopteridae family. It is known for its distinctive rounded body and suckers that help it cling to surfaces. Species: This family includes various species of lumpsuckers, with the most recognized being the Atlantic Lumpsucker, which can grow up to 30 cm in length. Reproduction:…
Flounder (Platichthys flesus) – Bot Taxonomy: The Flounder belongs to the Pleuronectidae family, which includes other flatfish species. The name Platichthys means “broad fish,” reflecting its flat body shape. Species: The European flounder is the most common in Zeeland waters. It can reach up to 50 cm in length and weigh around 2.7 kg. Reproduction:…
Plaice (Pleuronectes platessa) – Schol Taxonomy: The Plaice belongs to the Pleuronectidae family, which includes various species of flatfish. Its scientific name is Pleuronectes platessa. Species: Common plaice is the most widely known species, recognizable by its flat body and orange-red spots. Reproduction: Spawning occurs from January to March in deeper waters. Females lay between…
Bib (Pouting) Trisopterus luscus – Steenbolk Taxonomy: The Bib belongs to the Gadidae family. Which also includes cod and haddock. Its scientific name is Trisopterus luscus. Species: Bib, also known as Pouting. Is one of several species in the Trisopterus genus, recognizable by its distinctive dark spot on each side below the dorsal fin. Reproduction: They…
Cuttlefish (Sepiida) – Sepia Taxonomy: Cuttlefish belong to the Sepiida order within the class Cephalopoda, which also includes squid and octopuses. Their name is derived from the Latin word cuttle bone. Referring to the internal shell, they possess. Species: There are around 120 recognized species of cuttlefish. With sizes ranging from just a few centimeters to…
Seahorse (Hippocampus) – Zeepaardje Taxonomy: The Seahorse belongs to the *Syngnathidae* family, which includes pipefish and seadragons. Their name means “fused jaws,” referring to their tube-like snouts. Species: Over 40 recognized species, ranging from 1.5 cm (dwarf seahorse) to 35 cm (big-bellied seahorse). Reproduction: Males carry and give birth to the young; pregnancy lasts 10…
Shanny (Lipophrys pholis) – Steenslijmvis Taxonomy: Shanny belong to the Blenniidae family, related to other blennies. Species Diversity: There are several species of Shanny, each with unique adaptations and appearances. Habitat: Found in shallow coastal waters, often in rocky or weedy areas where they can hide and hunt. Diet: Primarily feed on small invertebrates and…
