Half fringelip mullet – Crenimugil heterocheilos

Crenimugil heterocheilos is a species of fish belonging to the family Mugilidae, commonly known as the mullet family. These fish are characterized by their elongated, torpedo-shaped bodies and generally silvery coloration.

Description & Characteristics

Crenimugil heterocheilos is a relatively large mullet species, reaching a maximum size of 50.0 cm. These fish possess a distinct physical feature that sets them apart: a prominent, deep notch present on the lower lip. This characteristic gives the species its scientific name, “heterocheilos”, which translates to “different lips” in Greek.

Habitat and Occurrence

Crenimugil heterocheilos is typically found in shallow coastal waters, with a depth range of 0.0 to 3.0 meters. These fish are primarily associated with estuarine and marine environments, making them a common sight in coastal lagoons, bays, and inlets. Their preference for shallow waters makes them a familiar presence in the intertidal zone, particularly in the neritic zone, which extends from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.

Taxonomy

Crenimugil heterocheilos belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Mugiliformes, and Family: Mugilidae. Teleostei is a vast group of bony fishes encompassing the majority of fish species, while Mugiliformes represents an order of fish characterized by their elongated bodies, often inhabiting coastal and brackish waters. The family Mugilidae, known as the mullet family, is recognized for its members’ robust, streamlined bodies and their tendency to feed on detritus and algae.

Feeding

Crenimugil heterocheilos is an omnivorous species, meaning it consumes both plant and animal matter. Their diet primarily consists of detritus, algae, and small invertebrates found in their shallow-water habitat. Their feeding behavior often involves sifting through the substrate, extracting food particles with their specialized mouths. This diet makes them an important part of the coastal food web, playing a crucial role in nutrient cycling and the overall health of their ecosystem.