White Mullet (Silver Mullet)

Mugil curema
Regions
Florida
Protected status
None
Also known as

Species Profile

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

FWC
Appearance
  • Stout silver body
  • Blackish blotch at base of pectoral fin
  • No distinct horizontal stripes
  • Gold/bronze spot on opercle and upper portion of iris
  • Nine to ten soft anal rays
Habitat
Found in a wide range of salinities, including fresh and brackish water. Commonly found inshore and occasionally in offshore waters.
Behavior
Often form large schools and spawn offshore in spring. Feed on microscopic algae, organic detritus, and plankton. White and striped mullet are important forage species (prey) for a variety of finfish, as well as birds and marine mammals.