Fin's Fish Guide
The Hornlip mullet (Oedalechilus labiosus) is a saltwater fish of the family Mugilidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The hornlip mullet is a mullet from the Indo-Pacific, ranging from the Red Sea to the Marshall Islands, north to southern Japan and south to the Great Barrier Reef. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a streamlined, olive body with a silvery belly and notably thickened lips. It forms schools at the surface of shallow reef flats and lagoons, often near freshwater inflow, and feeds on detritus and algae. The fish is harmless to humans and is used among other things as live bait. The IUCN has not evaluated the species (NE).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hornlip mullet?
The Hornlip mullet has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Strikingly thickened lips; forms surface shoals near freshwater inflow
Where does the Hornlip mullet live?
The Hornlip mullet lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Hornlip mullet get?
The Hornlip mullet grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Hornlip mullet dangerous to humans?
No, the Hornlip mullet is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Hornlip mullet edible?
The Hornlip mullet is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Hornlip mullet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hornlip mullet is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Oedalechilus
More from the family Mugilidae
Want the complete picture on the Hornlip mullet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hornlip mullet is one of 12,519 species in the app.