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Moffitt's goatfish (Parupeneus moffitti) — Mullidae

Moffitt's goatfish

Parupeneus moffitti
Family: Mullidae

The Moffitt's goatfish (Parupeneus moffitti) is a saltwater fish of the family Mullidae that grows up to 24 cm.

Length
23.5 cm
Water
Saltwater
Depth
120–230 m
Body shape
Torpedo-shaped
Substrate
Sand / mud bottom
Danger
Harmless
Range
Oceania: Guam, North. Marianas

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Description

The Moffitt's goatfish is a goatfish (Mullidae) from shallow sand and reef water of the western Pacific. The species grows to about 25 cm and has an elongate body with two long chin barbels with which it feels for prey in sand and sediment. As a bottom-oriented fish it roots over sand for worms, crustaceans and small invertebrates; it can change colour rapidly. It is a valued food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.

Frequently asked questions

How do you recognise the Moffitt's goatfish?

The Moffitt's goatfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly red-orange.

Where does the Moffitt's goatfish live?

The Moffitt's goatfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Guam, North. Marianas

How big does the Moffitt's goatfish get?

The Moffitt's goatfish grows to a maximum of about 24 cm.

Is the Moffitt's goatfish dangerous to humans?

No, the Moffitt's goatfish 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.

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All data

Identification

English name
Moffitt's goatfish sourced
Scientific name
Parupeneus moffitti
Family
Mullidae
Other names
Moffit's goatfish sourced

Appearance

Size class
Medium verified
Max length (cm)
23.5 verified
Body shape
Torpedo-shaped sourced
Dominant colour
Red / orange sourced
Tail shape
Forked
Barbels
Yes sourced

Habitat & distribution

Water type
Saltwater sourced
Substrate
Sand / mud bottom sourced
Min depth (m)
120 verified
Max depth (m)
230 verified
Natural range
Oceania: Guam, North. Marianas sourced
Origin
Native

Behaviour & biology

Territorial
No
Reproduction
Separate sexes
Sexual dimorphism
No
Seasonality
Present year-round in its habitat; no pronounced seasonality known.

For anglers

Fishing method
Bottom fishing with natural bait (worm, shrimp or fish) on or just above the seabed.
Regulations source

Safety

Danger to humans
Harmless verified
First aid
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. verified

Status & sources

Sources
FishBase via GBIF (DwC-A), CC-BY-NC 4.0

Same genus Parupeneus

More from the family Mullidae

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