Fin's Fish Guide
The Fantail mullet (Mugil trichodon) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Mugilidae that grows up to 46 cm.
Western Atlantic and Caribbean; coastal waters, lagoons and lower reaches of rivers.
Description
The fantail mullet is a mullet of the family Mugilidae from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 46 cm and has a streamlined, silvery body. As a euryhaline species it occurs in coastal waters, brackish lagoons and the lower reaches of rivers, sometimes even in fresh water. With its small mouth it grazes small algae and other organic matter from soft bottoms and the sediment. Mullets often form schools and are important prey for predatory fishes and seabirds. The eggs are pelagic and non-adhesive. The fantail mullet is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fantail mullet?
The Fantail mullet has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Euryhaline mullet that even moves into fresh water; pelagic, non-adhesive eggs.
Where does the Fantail mullet live?
The Fantail mullet lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Western Atlantic and Caribbean; coastal waters, lagoons and lower reaches of rivers.
How big does the Fantail mullet get?
The Fantail mullet grows to a maximum of about 46 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Fantail mullet dangerous to humans?
No, the Fantail mullet is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Fantail mullet edible?
The Fantail mullet is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mugil
More from the family Mugilidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fantail mullet is one of 12,519 species in the app.