Fantail Mullet

Mugil gyrans
Regions
Florida
Protected status
None
Also known as

Species Profile

Florida saltwater profile data (FWC). Availability and detail varies by species.

FWC
Size
Usually less than 1 pound
Similar species
Striped mullet, M. cephalus (has stripes and lacks black blotch at base of pectoral fin), and white mullet, M. curema (lacks pigmented second dorsal fin) Size: Usually less than 1 pound
Appearance
  • Back is olive green with blue tints, shading to silvery sides and a white belly
  • Anal and pelvic fins yellowish
  • Dark blotch at base of pectoral fin
  • Second dorsal fin starts behind the beginning of the anal fin
  • Inverted V-shaped mouth Lacks dark stripes
Habitat
Coastal waters, occurring along beaches in the fall.
Behavior
Spawn in nearshore or inshore waters during spring and summer. Juveniles found inshore. Feed on algae, small crustaceans and decaying matter.