First record of an anomalous mullet fish (Mugil cephalus) from New Zealand: Tuhinga 15

Tuhinga 15: 121 - 124

ABSTRACT: Skeletal deformities in a mullet fish, Mugil cephalus Linnaeus, 1758 (Mugilidae: Perciformes), are reported from New Zealand for the first time. Deformities involve the last three thoracic and the first caudal vertebrae. Adverse environmental factors, such as chemical pollution of the habitat, are believed to be the cause of such deformities.

KEYWORDS: skeletal deformities, mullet, Mugil cephalus, environmental pollution, New Zealand.