Fin's Fish Guide
The Leaping mullet (Mugil capurrii) is a brackish-water fish of the family Mugilidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Africa: Cape Verde, Mauritania, Morocco, Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, West Sahara and others
Description
The leaping mullet is a mullet (Mugilidae) from shallow coastal, estuarine and lagoon water of the eastern Atlantic around West Africa. The species grows to about 35 cm and has a streamlined, silver-grey body with a blunt head and small mouth. As a social, bottom-oriented fish it moves in schools over sand and mud bottoms and takes detritus, algae and micro-organisms, which it grinds with a gizzard-like stomach. It is a valued food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Leaping mullet?
The Leaping mullet has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Leaping mullet live?
The Leaping mullet lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: Cape Verde, Mauritania, Morocco, Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, West Sahara and others
How big does the Leaping mullet get?
The Leaping mullet grows to a maximum of about 45 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Leaping mullet dangerous to humans?
No, the Leaping 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 Leaping mullet edible?
Yes, the Leaping mullet is commonly eaten.
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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
Want the complete picture on the Leaping mullet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Leaping mullet is one of 12,519 species in the app.