Fin's Fish Guide
The Red mullet (Mullus barbatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Mullidae that grows up to 38 cm.
Eastern Atlantic, the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea, on sandy and silty bottoms.
Description
The red mullet is a reddish bottom fish of the family Mullidae reaching about 38 cm. Unlike the related striped red mullet it has a steep, blunt forehead and lacks clear yellow longitudinal stripes; the colour is pink to red with a silvery sheen. Characteristic are the two long barbels under the chin, with which the fish probes sand and mud for food and locates small crustaceans, worms and molluscs. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms of the eastern Atlantic, the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, often in small groups. The red mullet has been a highly prized food fish since antiquity, 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 plain pattern. Reddish bottom fish with a steep, blunt head and two long barbels under the chin with which it feels for food in the sand.
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, the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea, on sandy and silty bottoms.
How big does the Red mullet get?
The Red mullet grows to a maximum of about 38 cm. On average the species is around 20 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.
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.
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.