Liza Richardsonii (Harder)
Colour, Shape and Size
The harder is an elongate with a pointed snout. The body has an overall silvery sheen, but is darker above and white below. There is a yellow blotch on the gill covers. Can attain 40cm.
External Anatomy
The body is covered with 44-50 series of large, distinct scales arranged along the flanks. The fins are well developed. The first dorsal fin consists of four spines, and is well separated from the second dorsal of one spine plus eight or nine rays. The anal fin consists of three spines plus nine
rays, and the caudal fin is slightly forked. The terminal mouth is surrounded by thin lips and while the jaws of adults are toothless, juveniles of less than 10cm have distinctly pointed teeth. There are 90-100 rakers on the first gill arch. The eyes are not covered with adipose tissue.
Natural History
Dense shoals of this abundant cool water species may often be seen off the rocky points and sandy beaches of the southern and western Cape coast. Many also frequent estuaries where tolerance to low salinities enables the young to use these regions a nursery areas. In place of a stomach, the harder has a long, muscular crop, rather like the gizzard of a bird. The diet consists primarily of easily digestable, microscopic plant organisms know as diatoms. Fine sand particles are also taken in through the mouth possible as a mechanical aid to digestion. The totally non-aggressive harder is freely preyed upon by many large gamefish. Sexual maturity is attained at a length of about 20cm. Spawning takes place during spring in shallow areas such as False Bay.
Capture
Though it rarely takes a bait, the harder is traditionally of great importance to commercial seine and gill net operators. Its firm white flesh makes excellent eating. Salt dried harder is known as boc kkom, which when smoked, is a veritable delicacy. It is also a good bait.
Specific Catch Restrictions
Commercial catches are subject to quota.
