How to Identify Lisa

To identify Lisa (Mugil liza), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically dark greenish-grey to bluish-grey, fading to silvery sides and a white belly. Fins are generally dusky.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Robust, cylindrical body, slightly compressed laterally., Small, terminal mouth with thick lips., Adipose eyelid well-developed, covering most of the eye., Two widely separated dorsal fins., Large, cycloid scales.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 4 strong spines, the second with 1 spine and 8 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 origin of the first dorsal fin.

Distinctive fins

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

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Adipose Eyelid

   A prominent, fatty eyelid that covers a significant portion of the eye, leaving only a central slit for vision. This is a key distinguishing feature among mullets.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fins

   Two distinct dorsal fins, widely separated. The first dorsal fin has four strong spines, and its origin is anterior to the pelvic fin origin.

3. 3

   Mouth

   Small, terminal mouth with relatively thick lips. The mouth is not protractile.

4. 4

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Robust, torpedo-shaped body, dark dorsally and silvery ventrally. The overall appearance is stout compared to some other mullet species.

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