Fin's Fish Guide
The Red mullet (Mullus surmuletus) is a saltwater fish of the family Mullidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Eastern Atlantic from the British Isles to West Africa, with the North Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, on sandy and gravel bottoms.
Description
The striped red mullet is a strikingly coloured bottom fish of the family Mullidae reaching about 40 cm. The elongate body is reddish to pink with yellow longitudinal stripes and a steep forehead. Characteristic are the two long barbels under the chin, with which the fish probes sand and gravel for food and locates small crustaceans, worms and molluscs. The species lives on sand and gravel bottoms of the eastern Atlantic, the North Sea and the Mediterranean, from shallow water to several hundred metres, and often swims in small groups. The striped red mullet is a highly prized food fish with fine, flavoursome flesh and is taken by both commercial and sport fisheries.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Red mullet?
The Red mullet has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Two long barbels under the chin with which the fish probes the sand for food; reddish body with yellow longitudinal stripes.
Where does the Red mullet live?
The Red mullet lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic from the British Isles to West Africa, with the North Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, on sandy and gravel bottoms.
How big does the Red mullet get?
The Red mullet grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Red mullet dangerous to humans?
No, the Red mullet is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Red mullet edible?
Yes, the Red mullet is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Red mullet and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mullus
More from the family Mullidae
Want the complete picture on the Red mullet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Red mullet is one of 12,519 species in the app.