The Thicklip Grey Mullet – Chelon labrosus is a species of ray-finned fish belonging to the family Mugilidae. These fish are commonly found in coastal waters around the world, making them a familiar sight to many.
Description & Characteristics
The Thicklip Grey Mullet can reach a maximum size of 75.0 cm, distinguishing it from other members of its family. Its physical characteristics include a slender body shape and a prominent, thick lower lip, which is where the species gets its name.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Thicklip Grey Mullet is primarily found in coastal waters with depths ranging from 2.0 to 15.0 meters. This species thrives in a variety of environments, including estuaries, lagoons, and coastal areas. These fish are often found in marine zones like the neritic zone and the intertidal zone, signifying their adaptability to different depths and salinities.
Taxonomy
The species Chelon labrosus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Mugiliformes, and Family: Mugilidae. This classification places the Thicklip Grey Mullet within the larger group of ray-finned fishes, specifically within the order that includes mullets and their relatives.
Feeding
The Thicklip Grey Mullet exhibits a varied diet, consuming a wide range of food sources. Their feeding habits include algae, amphipods, aquatic plants, crustaceans, daphnia salina, detritus, insects, invertebrates, phytoplankton, snails, worms, zoobenthos, and zooplankton. This versatile diet allows them to thrive in a variety of habitats and take advantage of available food resources.
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