Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackfin mullet (Ellochelon vaigiensis) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Mugilidae that grows up to 63 cm.
Description
The squaretail mullet is a mullet of the family Mugilidae widely distributed across the Indo-Pacific. The species has a streamlined, silvery body with a conspicuously straight, square tail and reaches about 63 cm. It inhabits lagoons, reef flats, estuaries and coastal creeks, forms large schools in mangroves and can ascend far into fresh water. The diet consists of phytoplankton, small algae and detritus. The species is of commercial importance and is regularly eaten, but larger individuals can carry ciguatera toxin.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackfin mullet?
The Blackfin mullet has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Straight, square tail; forms large shoals in mangroves; may contain ciguatera.
Where does the Blackfin mullet live?
The Blackfin mullet lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific, from East Africa and the Red Sea to the western Pacific.
How big does the Blackfin mullet get?
The Blackfin mullet grows to a maximum of about 63 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Blackfin mullet dangerous to humans?
The Blackfin mullet is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Harmless to handle. In some areas there are reports of ciguatera poisoning after eating it, especially larger individuals: in case of symptoms such as tingling, nausea, vomiting or a reversed hot-cold sensation, seek medical help and keep any leftover material.
Is the Blackfin mullet edible?
Yes, the Blackfin mullet is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Mugilidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackfin mullet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackfin mullet is one of 12,519 species in the app.