How to Identify Golden Grey Mullet

To identify Golden Grey Mullet (Liza aurata), 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 belly. A distinctive golden spot is present on the operculum (gill cover). Often has faint longitudinal stripes along the flanks.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Golden spot on the operculum, Adipose eyelid covering most of the eye, Small, terminal mouth with fine teeth, 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 origin of the pelvic fins.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively short, not reaching the anterior margin of the eye when folded forward.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located beneath the first dorsal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Golden Spot

   Look for the prominent golden or yellowish spot on the operculum (gill cover), which is a key distinguishing feature.

2. 2

   Adipose Eyelid

   Observe the adipose eyelid, which covers a significant portion of the eye, leaving only a vertical slit in the center.

3. 3

   Dorsal Fins

   Note the two distinctly separate dorsal fins. The first dorsal fin has 4 strong spines.

4. 4

   Pectoral Fin Length

   The pectoral fins are relatively short and do not reach the anterior margin of the eye when folded forward.

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