Fin's Fish Guide
The Southern mullet (Liza richardsonii) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Mugilidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The southern mullet is a mullet (Mugilidae) from the coastal waters of southern Africa. The species reaches about 40 cm and has a streamlined, silvery-grey body with two separate dorsal fins. It is euryhaline and occurs in the sea, in estuaries and in the lower reaches of rivers, where it tolerates strongly varying salinities. As an omnivore it grazes detritus, algae and small bottom organisms from the substrate and mud. The species is very abundant along the southern African coast and is locally an important food and bait fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Southern mullet?
The Southern mullet has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Euryhaline mullet; very abundant and important as a food and bait fish in southern Africa.
Where does the Southern mullet live?
The Southern mullet lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Coastal waters of southern Africa.
How big does the Southern mullet get?
The Southern mullet grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Southern mullet dangerous to humans?
No, the Southern mullet is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Southern mullet edible?
Yes, the Southern mullet is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Liza
More from the family Mugilidae
Want the complete picture on the Southern mullet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Southern mullet is one of 12,519 species in the app.