How to Identify White Mullet

To identify White Mullet (Mugil curema), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically dark olive-green to bluish-gray, fading to silvery on the sides and white on the belly. Often has faint longitudinal stripes along the sides, especially in younger individuals. Pectoral fins may have a dark spot at the base.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Two widely separated dorsal fins, the first with 4 strong spines., Large, cycloid scales covering the body and head., Small, terminal mouth with fine, comb-like teeth., Adipose eyelid covering most of the eye, leaving a vertical slit over the pupil., Absence of a lateral line, though faint longitudinal stripes may be present.

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 short, not reaching the origin of the first dorsal fin. Often with a dark spot at the base.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located well behind the pectoral fins, with 1 spine and 5 soft rays. Anal fin with 3 spines and 8-9 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Dorsal Fins

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

2. 2

   Adipose Eyelid

   Observe the eye; it will have a thick, gelatinous adipose eyelid covering most of the eye, leaving only a vertical slit over the pupil. This is a key characteristic of mullets.

3. 3

   Pectoral Fin Spot

   Check the base of the pectoral fin for a dark, often blackish, spot. This spot can be more prominent in some individuals.

4. 4

   Coloration

   Note the silvery sides and white belly, contrasting with a darker back. Faint longitudinal stripes may be visible.

5. 5

   Mouth

   The mouth is small and terminal, with fine, comb-like teeth, adapted for grazing on detritus and algae.

Explore White Mullet