The Swordtail jawfish (Lonchopisthus micrognathus) is a saltwater fish of the family Opistognathidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The swordtail jawfish is a jawfish (Opistognathidae) from coastal waters of the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a slender, pale body with a large mouth and a long, tapering tail. As a bottom-dweller it digs a vertical burrow in sand and mud bottoms, from which it protrudes its forebody to snap at passing zooplankton; when threatened it withdraws into the burrow. The male broods the eggs in his mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Swordtail jawfish?
The Swordtail jawfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Swordtail jawfish live?
The Swordtail jawfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Swordtail jawfish get?
The Swordtail jawfish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Swordtail jawfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Swordtail jawfish is harmless to humans.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lonchopisthus
More from the family Opistognathidae
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