156 
GAME FISH IN TANALAND 
Mtumbu 
Migratory Habits. — This fish is said not to migrate, but 
frequents the Tanaland waters in large numbers, comparatively 
to other game fish. It is most common in July and August. 
Breeding. — It breeds on this coast, young fish being found 
in the creeks all the year round. Opinions of fishermen vary 
as to the time of year when the roe is largest. Some say the 
fish spawn at the end of one or other monsoon, while others 
say that spawning time is in January or February. 
Haunts. — The younger fish keep to the creeks, while full- 
grown fish prefer the open sea. 
Bait and Methods of Capture. — It is caught in fish-traps, 
nets, and with hook and line, the best bait being ‘ mkisi * 
(mullet), and ‘ dome * (octopus). 
Mkisi 
Mullet — used for bait 
Migratory Habits. — This fish is said not to migrate from 
this coast, and are to be found here in plenty all the year 
round. According to information obtained from Arabs, it is 
not to be found in Arabian waters. 
Haunts. — The mkisi rarely goes out to the open sea, but 
fives in the quiet waters of mangrove creeks. It prefers a 
muddy bottom to a sandy one. 
Breeding. — Young fish are found in the vicinity of the 
Lamu archipelago. The roe is described as being the size of 
grains of sand. In some individuals the roe is white, and in 
others it has a reddish-brown tinge which is considered by 
Lamu fishermen to be a sign that the fish is in a full-blooded, 
healthy condition. 
Bait and Methods of Capture. — The mkisi is not fished for 
here with hook and line, as it will not take the ordinary kinds 
of dead bait used by natives, who consequently look upon this 
fish as a vegetarian. Its food is believed to be weeds and 
other vegetable matter to be found round about the roots of 
mangrove trees. 
