Fin's Fish Guide
The Barred knifejaw (Oplegnathus fasciatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Oplegnathidae that grows up to 80 cm.
Description
The barred knifejaw is a fish of the knifejaw family (Oplegnathidae) from the northwestern Pacific off Japan and Korea. The species grows to about 80 cm and has a deep, silver-grey body with several conspicuous black crossbars that fade with age, and a powerful, parrot-like beak with which it crushes hard prey. It inhabits coastal rocky reefs; juveniles stay near drifting seaweed. It feeds on shellfish, sea urchins, crustaceans and other hard-shelled life. It is a valued sport and food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barred knifejaw?
The Barred knifejaw has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Parrot-like beaked mouth for crushing hard-shelled prey; black vertical bars fade with age.
Where does the Barred knifejaw live?
The Barred knifejaw lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Northwest Pacific off Japan and Korea; coastal rocky reefs.
How big does the Barred knifejaw get?
The Barred knifejaw grows to a maximum of about 80 cm.
Is the Barred knifejaw dangerous to humans?
No, the Barred knifejaw is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Barred knifejaw edible?
Yes, the Barred knifejaw is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Oplegnathus
More from the family Oplegnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Barred knifejaw?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barred knifejaw is one of 12,519 species in the app.