Van fish markets see high demand for endemic pearl mullet

With the start of the fishing season in Van, Turkey, local fish markets are experiencing significant activity. While various seafood from the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions are available, consumers and tourists are primarily choosing the pearl mullet, an endemic species found only in Lake Van.

Fishmonger Alihan Kırmızıkaya reported that the pearl mullet is currently being sold at 150 lira per kilogram, a price that has remained stable compared to last year. Another popular option is bonito, which has seen a price increase from 80–100 lira to 130 lira per piece due to migration patterns and decreasing abundance.

Other seasonal offerings include anchovy and horse mackerel, priced at approximately 250 lira per kilogram. Vendors expect fish variety to increase as weather conditions become colder over the next one to two months.