Mugilidae

The Mugilidae, commonly known as mullets or grey mullets, are a family of ray-finned fish found in coastal marine, brackish, and freshwater habitats worldwide. They are a commercially important group, valued for their flesh and used in various traditional medicines. This family includes over 75 species, grouped into 19 genera.

Boxlip mullet – Oedalechilus labeo

Tade gray mullet – Planiliza planiceps

Flathead grey mullet – Mugil cephalus

Fringelip mullet – Crenimugil crenilabis

Bluetail mullet – Crenimugil buchanani

Thinlip grey mullet – Chelon ramada

Thicklip grey mullet – Chelon labrosus

Golden grey mullet – Chelon auratus

Bluespot mullet – Crenimugil seheli

Half fringelip mullet – Crenimugil heterocheilos

Characteristics

Mullets are generally characterized by their elongated, cylindrical bodies, with a slightly compressed head. They have a single dorsal fin with two distinct sections, separated by a space. Their mouths are small and toothless, adapted for filter feeding on algae and detritus. Mullets possess a distinctive, thick-lipped lower jaw, often with a fleshy fold that helps to collect food particles.

Other notable characteristics of Mugilidae include:

  • Scales: Large, cycloid scales that are easily shed.
  • Lateral Line: A prominent, complete lateral line running along the side of the body.
  • Fins: Two widely separated dorsal fins, a pair of pectoral fins, a pair of pelvic fins, an anal fin, and a forked caudal fin.
  • Coloration: Generally silver or grey, often with darker stripes or spots.

Environments

Mullets are remarkably adaptable fish, thriving in a wide variety of habitats. They are most commonly found in coastal waters, estuaries, and lagoons, but can also inhabit freshwater lakes, rivers, and even brackish ponds. This adaptability allows them to exploit diverse food sources and environmental conditions.

Mullets are known for their tolerance of low oxygen levels and can survive in water with a high salinity. They are often seen in schools, feeding on algae, detritus, and small invertebrates from the bottom of the water column.

Feeding Habits

Mullets are primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae, detritus, and other organic matter. They also consume small invertebrates, which they filter from the water. Their specialized digestive system allows them to efficiently digest cellulose, a complex carbohydrate found in plant cell walls.

Reproduction

Mullets reproduce in open water, typically near the coast. The males release sperm into the water, which fertilizes the eggs released by the females. The eggs are pelagic, drifting with the currents until they hatch. The young mullets are planktonic, feeding on microscopic organisms, before transitioning to a benthic diet as they grow.

Importance

Mullets are an important food source in many parts of the world. They are also used in traditional medicines and as bait for other fish species. Their adaptability and tolerance to various environmental conditions make them a valuable component of coastal ecosystems.

References

  • Froese, R. and Pauly, D. (Eds.) (2023). FishBase. World Wide Web electronic publication. Available at: https://www.fishbase.org/
  • Nelson, J. S. (2006). Fishes of the World. 4th ed. John Wiley & Sons, Hoboken, New Jersey.
  • Smith, M. M. and Heemstra, P. C. (2003). Smiths' Sea Fishes. Revised and updated ed. Struik Publishers, Cape Town.