Fin's Fish Guide
The Bastard mullet (Megalops cyprinoides) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Megalopidae that grows up to 150 cm.
Coastal waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, from East Africa to Oceania.
Description
The Indo-Pacific tarpon is a large, silvery fish of the coastal waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. The species can reach about 1.5 metres and has a streamlined, laterally compressed body with large scales, large eyes and an upward-pointing mouth; the last dorsal-fin ray is greatly elongated. Adults usually live at sea, while juveniles enter river mouths, bays, mangroves and even fresh inland waters. With a richly vascularised swim bladder the species can gulp air and so tolerate low-oxygen water. It is fished locally and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bastard mullet?
The Bastard mullet has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Elongated last dorsal fin ray; can gulp air with the swim bladder.
Where does the Bastard mullet live?
The Bastard mullet lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Coastal waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, from East Africa to Oceania.
How big does the Bastard mullet get?
The Bastard mullet grows to a maximum of about 150 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Bastard mullet dangerous to humans?
No, the Bastard mullet is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Bastard mullet edible?
The Bastard mullet is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Megalops
More from the family Megalopidae
Want the complete picture on the Bastard mullet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bastard mullet is one of 12,519 species in the app.