The biology of solenette, <i>Buglossidium luteum</i> (Risso), in the Solway Firth

The population of solenette, Buglossidium luteum, in the Solway Firth was studied from November 1977 until January 1979. The fish live in mobile, highly aggregated groupings, on sandy bottoms, in the outer Firth. A general offshore movement occurs in winter with a limited incursion of juveniles into the inner Solway in summer. Most growth occurs in the first few years of life and a length of 130 mm is attained. Longevity is 10 years. Females grow larger than males, but both sexes mature in their third year. Spawning starts in March/April, is most active in May/June and ends in August. Food intake is markedly reduced in winter. Small Crustacea, bivalve molluscs and polychaete worms form year‐round components of a varied diet. Juvenile forms, especially shrimp and fish are readily taken when available.