How to Identify Thicklip Grey Mullet

To identify Thicklip Grey Mullet (Chelon labrosus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal side is typically dark grey to greenish-brown, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and belly. Often has several faint longitudinal stripes along the sides, though these can be indistinct. Fins are generally dusky.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Very thick, fleshy upper lip, often with 2-3 rows of papillae (small bumps)., Small, terminal mouth., Large, cycloid scales., Two widely separated dorsal fins.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 4 strong spines, the second with 1 spine and 8-9 soft rays. The first dorsal fin originates anterior to the pelvic fins.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Relatively short pectoral fins, not reaching the origin of the first dorsal fin.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located well behind the pectoral fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Upper Lip

   The most distinguishing feature is the very thick, fleshy upper lip, which often has visible rows of papillae. This differentiates it from other mullet species like the Thinlip Grey Mullet (Liza ramada) or Golden Grey Mullet (Liza aurata) which have thinner lips.

2. 2

   Pectoral Fin Length

   The pectoral fin is relatively short and does not reach the anterior margin of the eye when folded forward. This helps distinguish it from the Flathead Grey Mullet (Mugil cephalus) where the pectoral fin is longer.

3. 3

   Scales

   Possesses large, cycloid scales. Counting the number of scales along the lateral line (typically 42-46) can aid in identification, though this requires careful examination.

4. 4

   Dorsal Fin Origin

   The origin of the first dorsal fin is typically anterior to the origin of the pelvic fins, a characteristic shared with some other mullet species but useful in combination with other features.

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