How to Identify Thinlip Grey Mullet

To identify Thinlip Grey Mullet (Chelon ramada), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal side is dark grey to greenish-grey, fading to silvery on the flanks and white on the belly. Often has faint longitudinal stripes along the sides, corresponding to scale rows. Fins are generally dusky.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Small, terminal mouth with thin lips, lacking papillae or tubercles., Adipose eyelid is poorly developed, covering only the posterior part of the eye., Pectoral fin is relatively long, reaching or extending beyond the origin of the first dorsal fin., No distinct black spot at the pectoral fin base.

Dorsal fin

Two separate dorsal fins. First dorsal fin with 4 strong spines. Second dorsal fin with 1 spine and 8-9 soft rays.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively long, typically reaching past the origin of the first dorsal fin. 15-17 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located behind the pectoral fin base.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Lips

   The most distinguishing feature is its thin upper lip, which lacks the prominent papillae or tubercles found in other mullet species like the Thicklip Grey Mullet (Chelon labrosus).

2. 2

   Pectoral Fin Length

   The pectoral fin is notably long, often extending beyond the vertical line of the first dorsal fin origin when laid forward.

3. 3

   Adipose Eyelid

   The adipose eyelid is poorly developed, covering only the posterior part of the eye, unlike the well-developed adipose eyelid of the Flathead Grey Mullet (Mugil cephalus).

4. 4

   Coloration

   Generally silvery with a darker back, often with faint longitudinal stripes along the scale rows.

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