How to Identify Mullet

To identify Mullet (Liza spp.), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Typically silvery-grey to olive-green on the dorsal side, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and belly. Some species may have faint longitudinal stripes or dark spots.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Two widely separated dorsal fins, the first with 4 spines and the second with 1 spine and 8-9 soft rays., Small, terminal or subterminal mouth, often with thick lips., Large, cycloid scales., Adipose eyelid often present, covering part of the eye.

Dorsal fin

Two distinct dorsal fins; D1: IV spines, D2: I spine, 8-9 soft rays.

Tail fin

Forked or emarginate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Relatively short, positioned high on the body.

Distinctive fins

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

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Dorsal Fins

   Look for two distinctly separate dorsal fins. The first is spiny, the second is soft-rayed.

2. 2

   Mouth

   Observe the small, often thick-lipped mouth, which is typically terminal or slightly subterminal.

3. 3

   Scales

   Note the relatively large, cycloid scales covering the body.

4. 4

   Adipose Eyelid

   Many Liza species possess a well-developed adipose eyelid, which partially covers the eye.

5. 5

   Body Shape

   The body is generally fusiform (spindle-shaped) and moderately compressed.

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