Mullets

Common Family Name

Mullets

Alias

Grey mullets

Scientific Name

Mugilidae

Size

Up to 90cm, average 50cm.

Identification

Elongated cylindrical body with both ends tapered. Two smallish dorsal fins which are well separated. Tail is weakly forked. Small mouths with thin lips and small teeth. No visible lateral line. Mostly silver with yellow, white or brown colouration or stripes.

General Info

Mugilidae family consists of 17 genera and 72 species. Large schools are found in shallow water just behind the breakers. Juveniles up to 2cm hide in estuaries. Sometimes confused with goatfish. Caught commercially. Pelagic spawners.

Feeding

Feeds on algae, detritus, insects, fish eggs and plankton.

Distribution

Occurs in all temperate and tropical oceans of the world.

Common Species

Flathead mullet - Mugil cephalus
Groovy mullet - Liza dumerilii
Southern mullet - Liza richardsonii