How to Identify Flathead Grey Mullet

To identify Flathead Grey Mullet (Mugil cephalus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal side is typically olive-green to bluish-grey, fading to silvery sides and a white belly. Often has 6-7 faint longitudinal stripes along the sides.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Adipose eyelid covering most of the eye, leaving a vertical slit for the pupil., Small, terminal mouth with fine, comb-like teeth., Two widely separated dorsal fins., Large, cycloid scales.

Dorsal fin

Two distinct dorsal fins; the first with 4 strong spines, the second with 8-9 soft rays.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Short, located high on the body.

Distinctive fins

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

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Adipose Eyelid

   The most distinguishing feature is the prominent adipose eyelid that covers a significant portion of the eye, leaving only a vertical slit for the pupil. This is absent or much less developed in many other mullet species.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fins

   Two widely separated dorsal fins. The first dorsal fin has four strong, rigid spines, while the second dorsal fin is composed of soft rays.

3. 3

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Robust, cylindrical body, flattened head, and typically olive-green to bluish-grey dorsally, silvery laterally, and white ventrally, often with faint longitudinal stripes.

4. 4

   Mouth

   Small, terminal mouth with fine, comb-like teeth, adapted for scraping algae and sifting detritus.

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