Red Mullet
Mullus barbatus
Identification
A small fish of 15 to 25 cm with a red to pinkish-red body and a distinctly steep, straight head profile. This distinguishes it from the striped red mullet (M. surmuletus), which has a more oblique profile. Two long chin barbels for probing the bottom. Large, easily detached scales.
Ecology
Lives on sandy and muddy bottoms to 300 meters. Uses its barbels to eagerly root out worms, crustaceans, and small shellfish. Typically a Mediterranean and warm East Atlantic species.
In the Netherlands
Very rare in the North Sea, appearing only in warm summers. The related striped red mullet (M. surmuletus) is far more common.
Upgrade to Explorer to see the best fishing spots for this species.
Seasonal patterns
Upgrade to see seasonal catch patterns for this species.
Key predictors
Upgrade to see the key predictors and statistical insights for this species.
