Fin's Fish Guide
The Fringelip mullet (Crenimugil crenilabis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Mugilidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The fringelip mullet is a mullet from the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Line and Tuamotu islands, north to Japan. The species grows to about 60 cm and has a streamlined, silvery body with a conspicuously fringed upper lip. It scoops up the upper layer of sand or mud and filters out algae, diatoms and detritus. Large specimens can cause ciguatera poisoning if eaten. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fringelip mullet?
The Fringelip mullet has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Strikingly fringed upper lip; sieves detritus from sand
Where does the Fringelip mullet live?
The Fringelip mullet lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Fringelip mullet get?
The Fringelip mullet grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 26 cm.
Is the Fringelip mullet dangerous to humans?
The Fringelip mullet is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The flesh of large specimens can contain ciguatoxin and cause ciguatera poisoning (stomach upset, tingling, reversal of hot/cold sensation). Do not eat large specimens from risk areas; seek medical help if symptoms of poisoning appear.
Is the Fringelip mullet edible?
Yes, the Fringelip mullet is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Crenimugil
More from the family Mugilidae
Want the complete picture on the Fringelip mullet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fringelip mullet is one of 12,519 species in the app.