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Planiliza macrolepis, commonly known as the Largescale mullet, is a euryhaline species of fish belonging to the family Mugilidae. It is characterized by its robust body, relatively large scales, and a broad head. This species is highly adaptable, inhabiting a wide range of coastal and estuarine environments across the Indo-Pacific region. It plays an important ecological role as a detritivore and is of significant commercial importance in many parts of its range.
Physical Characteristics
- Body shape
- elongated
- Coloration
- Dorsal surface is typically olive-green to brownish-grey, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and belly. Fins are often dusky or yellowish. A dark spot may be present at the base of the pectoral fin.
- Scale type
- cycloid
- Mouth position
- terminal
- Distinctive features
- Relatively large, cycloid scales (29-33 in lateral series), Broad, flattened head with a wide mouth, Adipose eyelid well developed, covering most of the eye, Two widely separated dorsal fins, Pectoral fin typically reaches to or just beyond the origin of the first dorsal fin
- 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 midpoint of the body.
- Tail fin
- Moderately forked caudal fin.
- Pectoral fin
- Pectoral fins are relatively long, typically reaching to or just beyond the origin of the first dorsal fin. 15-17 rays.
- Distinctive fins
- Anal fin with 3 spines and 8-9 soft rays. Pelvic fins are subabdominal.
Identification Tips
Scales
Count the number of scales in the lateral series (29-33). These scales are noticeably larger than those of many other mullet species.
Pectoral Fin Length
Observe if the pectoral fin reaches to or beyond the origin of the first dorsal fin. This is a key distinguishing feature.
Adipose Eyelid
Note the well-developed adipose eyelid that covers a significant portion of the eye, leaving only a central slit for the pupil.
Head Shape
The head is broad and somewhat flattened dorsally, with a wide mouth.
Habitat
- Water type
- brackish
- Depth
- Typically found in shallow coastal waters, estuaries, lagoons, and lower reaches of rivers, from surface to about 20 meters.
- Environment
- Prefers sandy or muddy bottoms in sheltered coastal areas, often associated with mangroves and seagrass beds. Highly euryhaline, tolerating a wide range of salinities from freshwater to hypersaline conditions.
- Geographic range
- Widespread in the Indo-West Pacific, from the Red Sea and East Africa eastward to Samoa, northward to southern Japan, and southward to Australia.
Aquarium Information
- Care level: intermediate
- Temperament: peaceful
- Diet: omnivore
- Minimum tank size: 200 gallons
- Temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
- pH level: 7.5-8.5
- Hardness: 10-25 dGH
- Compatibility: Generally compatible with other peaceful, similarly sized brackish or marine species. Avoid highly aggressive or very small tank mates.
- Special requirements: Requires a large tank with ample swimming space and good filtration. Can adapt to a range of salinities from freshwater to full marine, but brackish conditions are often preferred. A sand or fine gravel substrate is beneficial for their natural foraging behavior.
Wild Information
- Conservation status: least concern
- Seasonality: Spawning typically occurs during warmer months, varying geographically. Available year-round in many regions, with peak catches often coinciding with spawning aggregations or seasonal migrations.
- Market price: Varies significantly by region and market demand, generally moderate.
- Commercial importance: high
- Taste: Mild, slightly oily, with a distinct 'mullet' flavor.
- Texture: Flaky, firm flesh.
- Cooking methods: Grilling, Frying, Baking, Smoking, Steaming
- Nutritional value: Good source of protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, and various vitamins and minerals.
Key Facts
Euryhaline Adaptabilitybehavior
The Largescale mullet is remarkably euryhaline, meaning it can tolerate a wide range of salinities, from freshwater rivers to hypersaline lagoons, making it highly adaptable to diverse coastal environments.
Detritivore Dietbehavior
This species primarily feeds on detritus, algae, and small invertebrates found in the substrate, playing a crucial role in nutrient cycling within its ecosystems.
Taxonomic Reclassificationevolution
Historically, Planiliza macrolepis was classified under the genus Liza. Recent molecular and morphological studies have led to its reclassification into the genus Planiliza, reflecting a more accurate phylogenetic relationship.
Commercial Importanceinteresting
Largescale mullet is a significant food fish throughout its range, supporting artisanal and commercial fisheries due to its abundance and good flesh quality.
Safety Information
Safe- Safety level: safe
- Venomous: No
- Edibility: edible
- Handling notes: No specific handling precautions are required beyond standard fish handling practices to avoid fin pricks. They are not venomous.
Similar Species
Flathead mullet
Mugil cephalus
Mugil cephalus typically has smaller scales (38-42 in lateral series), a shorter pectoral fin that does not reach the first dorsal fin origin, and a less developed adipose eyelid.
Fringe-lipped mullet
Oedalechilus labiosus
Oedalechilus labiosus has distinctive fleshy, papillose lips and a different scale count. Its pectoral fin is also shorter.
Diamond-scale mullet
Liza vaigiensis
While sometimes used as an alternative name for P. macrolepis, Liza vaigiensis (now often classified as Planiliza vaigiensis) can be distinguished by its generally larger size, more robust body, and often a more pronounced dark spot at the pectoral fin base. Careful examination of scale counts and fin ray counts is often necessary for definitive identification.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Mugiliformes
- Family
- Mugilidae
- Genus
- Planiliza
- Species
- macrolepis
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