Mugil
Mugil is a genus of fish commonly known as mullet. These are silvery, streamlined fish with a slightly compressed body and a forked tail. They are found in coastal waters around the world, typically in brackish or saltwater environments. Mullet are known for their ability to tolerate a wide range of salinity and temperature, making them adaptable to various habitats. They are important food sources for humans and play a crucial role in coastal ecosystems.
Common Names
Mullet are known by various common names depending on the region, including:
- Grey mullet
- Striped mullet
- Flathead mullet
- Black mullet
- White mullet
- Yellowfin mullet
- Thicklip mullet
Characteristics
Mullet are characterized by:
- A slender, elongated body
- A slightly compressed body shape
- A forked tail fin
- A single dorsal fin with a spine followed by soft rays
- Two anal fins, the first with a spine and the second with soft rays
- A mouth with small, fine teeth
- A silvery or grayish color with darker stripes or spots
Environments
Mullet are found in coastal waters worldwide, including:
- Estuaries
- Lagoons
- Inlets
- Mangrove swamps
- Coastal seas
References
For further information about Mugil, refer to the following sources: