Come identificare Mullet

Per identificare Mullet (Mugilidae), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

torpedo

Colorazione

Typically silvery-grey to olive-green on the dorsal side, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and belly. Some species may have faint longitudinal stripes.

Tipo di squame

cycloid

Posizione della bocca

terminal

Caratteristiche distintive

Two widely separated dorsal fins, the first with 4 stiff spines and the second with 8-9 soft rays., Small, triangular mouth, often with thick lips., Adipose eyelid, often well-developed, covering part of the eye., Large, cycloid scales., Absence of a lateral line on the body (though pores may be present on the head).

Pinna dorsale

Two distinct dorsal fins; the first is spiny (typically 4 spines), and the second is soft-rayed (typically 8-9 rays).

Pinna caudale

Forked or emarginate caudal fin.

Pinna pettorale

Pectoral fins are typically short and set high on the body.

Pinne distintive

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located well behind the pectoral fins, with 1 spine and 5 soft rays.

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Dorsal Fins

   Look for two distinctly separate dorsal fins. The first is spiny, and the second is soft-rayed. This is a key distinguishing feature from many other fish families.

2. 2

   Mouth Shape

   Observe the small, often triangular mouth, which is adapted for grazing on detritus and algae. Some species have noticeably thick lips.

3. 3

   Adipose Eyelid

   Many mullet species possess a transparent, fatty eyelid that partially covers the eye, giving it a somewhat 'glazed' appearance. The extent of this eyelid can vary between species.

4. 4

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Mullets have a robust, torpedo-shaped body, typically silvery-grey to olive-green dorsally, fading to white ventrally. Some species may have subtle longitudinal stripes.

5. 5

   Behavior

   Mullets are often seen in schools, frequently jumping out of the water, especially when startled or feeding. This 'jumping' behavior is characteristic.

Esplora Mullet