Fin's Fish Guide
The Flathead mullet (Chelon planiceps) is a brackish-water fish of the family Mugilidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Description
The flathead mullet is a mullet (Mugilidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a slender, streamlined, silvery body with a fairly broad, flattened head. It inhabits coastal waters and estuaries and forms schools in shallow water. On the bottom it takes in silt and growth and sifts out diatoms, algae, detritus and small invertebrates. It is a local food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flathead mullet?
The Flathead mullet is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Broad, flattened head; shoaling, bottom-sifting mullet of coastal waters and estuaries.
Where does the Flathead mullet live?
The Flathead mullet lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Indo-West Pacific; coastal waters and estuaries.
How big does the Flathead mullet get?
The Flathead mullet grows to a maximum of about 70 cm. On average the species is around 42 cm.
Is the Flathead mullet dangerous to humans?
No, the Flathead mullet is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Flathead mullet edible?
Yes, the Flathead mullet is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Chelon
More from the family Mugilidae
Want the complete picture on the Flathead mullet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flathead mullet is one of 12,519 species in the app.