Other names: Flathead mullet, Striped mullet, Black mullet, Bully mullet, Common mullet
The flathead grey mullet, Mugil cephalus, is a cosmopolitan fish found in coastal waters worldwide. Known for its stout body and adaptability, it inhabits marine, brackish, and freshwater environments. This species is significant in fisheries and aquaculture, providing food and bait. It is also popular among anglers for its sporting qualities.
Other names
Flathead mullet, Striped mullet, Black mullet, Bully mullet, Common mullet
Length
~50" (max 100)
Weight
~4" (max 8)
Water
Salt, brackish, fresh
Water Temp
8-24° F
Depth
120 ft
Bread
Prawns
WormsAlways open
60
180
21 cm
Flathead grey mullets thrive in coastal waters, estuaries, and rivers
They prefer sandy or muddy bottoms, often forming schools in shallow waters
Their diet includes detritus, algae, and small invertebrates
Juveniles are found in sheltered coastal areas and estuaries, feeding on plankton
Spawning occurs at sea, typically in warm months
Females lay large numbers of eggs, which are fertilized and float freely until hatching
Larvae migrate back to coastal and estuarine areas to grow
These fish exhibit strong site fidelity, often returning to the same spawning grounds annually
