How to Identify Largescale mullet

To identify Largescale mullet (Planiliza macrolepis), look at these key features.

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

1. 1

   Scales

   Count the number of scales in the lateral series (29-33). These scales are noticeably larger than those of many other mullet species.

2. 2

   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.

3. 3

   Adipose Eyelid

   Note the well-developed adipose eyelid that covers a significant portion of the eye, leaving only a central slit for the pupil.

4. 4

   Head Shape

   The head is broad and somewhat flattened dorsally, with a wide mouth.

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