The Lebranche mullet (Mugil liza) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Mugilidae that grows up to 80 cm.
Description
The lebranche mullet is a large mullet from the western Atlantic, from Bermuda and Florida through the Caribbean to Argentina. The species grows to about 80 cm and has a streamlined, silvery body with a blue-green back. It forms large schools in coastal water, brackish estuaries, hypersaline lagoons and also enters fresh water; it migrates along the coast to spawn. As a detritivore it scrapes the upper bottom layer and filters algae and organic matter. It is an important food fish; the salted roe is considered a delicacy. Owing to insufficient data the IUCN lists the species as Data Deficient (DD).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lebranche mullet?
The Lebranche mullet has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Forms large shoals; detritus eater that scrapes the bottom
Where does the Lebranche mullet live?
The Lebranche mullet lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic
How big does the Lebranche mullet get?
The Lebranche mullet grows to a maximum of about 80 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Lebranche mullet dangerous to humans?
No, the Lebranche 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 Lebranche mullet edible?
Yes, the Lebranche 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

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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lebranche mullet is one of 12,519 species in the app.