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Sand Mullet

Sand Mullet

Myxus Elongatus

Quick Facts

Scientific name Myxus Elongatus

Other names Sand Grey Mullet, Black Spot Mullet, Bully Mullet, Lano, Poddy, Tallegalene, Wide Bay Mullet

Size Up to 40 cm (15.7 in)

Weight Up to 1.25 kg (3.3 lb)

Distribution

Habitat & AU Distribution Shallow coastal waters, estuaries, lagoons & bays

Depth Range 1-10 m (32 ft)

Interesting Info

The Sand Mullet is a schooling fish, typically found in shallow coastal waters to depths of 10 m (32 ft).
These mullet are generally used as a bait fish.
These fish feed on plankton, mollusks, microscopic algae and small crustaceans.
Estimates of lifespan are up to 16 years with maturity around 3 to 4 years.
They are an important food source in the food chain.
Juvenile Sand Mullet can be found in freshwater but more common in estuaries and the coastal waters as they mature.
The main predators of Sand Mullet include seabirds, dolphins, sharks, larger predatory fish and marine mammals.

Species Interaction

Recreational Fishing

Sand Mullet are a popular baitfish for catching fish or in crab traps. Whilst generally targeted for bait, they are also popular in certain dishes for human consumption. The Sand Mullet has a large range across Australia and can be found in along most coastlines excluding NT.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Mugiliformes

Family: Mugilidae

Genus: Myxus

Species: Myxus elongatus

Conservation Status

There is little information on the conservation status of Sand Mullet in Australia. However, as its a fast growing species there are limited concerns of over fishing.

Annual recreational harvests are low as it is not a highly targeted species.