Thin-Lipped Grey Mullet

Fact File: Common Name(s): Thin-Lipped Grey Mullet Scientific Name: Liza ramada Usual Size: Max.60cm UK Record Weights from rod/line: Shore: 7lb-00oz-00dr (3kg175g)Saltside, Oultan Broad N.Mableson 1991 Boat: 5lb-15oz-00dr (2kg693g)River Medway, Dartford, Kent A.Copleym 1991 MAFF Minimum Size: Shore: Boat:

Identification: Typical Grey Mullet with it's streamlined body, flattened head, and two widely spaced dorsal fins. The broad head is short and flattened, has a narrow, but well developed upper lip, but is thinner that the diameter of the eye. The mouth is small, and has minute teeth, forming a single row on the lower edge of the lip. The eyes are covered in a transparent membrane, save for the area over the pupil.The snout region is scaled to the anterior nostrils. The underside of the lower jaw sports a wide midline space, in contrast to that of the Thick Lipped Grey Mullet.Scales on the upper body have only one groove. The narrow based first dorsal fin is composed of four narrow membrane spines that fan from the base. The second dorsal fin has some 8 to 9 branched rays.The anal fin is very similar in shape to that of the second dorsal fin above it, but is formed of three leading spines, followed by 8 to 9 branched rays. The pectoral fin is short, and will not reach the edge of the eye if pushed forwards. It has a distinctive black spot at it's base. The overall colouration of the back and upper sides is that of a bluish grey, with the sides being more silver and blending into the white of the belly region. A degree of stripping occurs lengthwise along the mid and upper sides. Breeding: Spawns from October though into December in the sea, with young often seen residing in the lagoons of the Mediterranean. Growth is slow with estimations of; 12cm = 2yrs, 33cm = 6yrs Habitat: This surface dwelling fish is commonly associated with shallow waters, lagoons, and estuaries that it migrates into during the summer. it is not uncommon for it to be observed beyond the tidal reaches of many rivers. This schooling fish is the most abundant of the Grey Mullets in UK waters. Food: Mainly feeds on algae, although this may be supplemented by bottom dwelling crustaceans etc. at times. Range: Extends up to Ireland and into the North Sea, but is most commonly encountered in southern shores. Additional Notes:

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