The Castelnau's jawfish (Opistognathus castelnaui) is a saltwater fish of the family Opistognathidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The Castelnau's jawfish is a jawfish (Opistognathidae) from coastal waters of northern Australia. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a stocky forebody with a very large mouth and large eyes. As a bottom-dweller it digs and lines a vertical burrow with pebbles, from which it protrudes its forebody to snap at passing zooplankton; when threatened it withdraws backwards 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 Castelnau's jawfish?
The Castelnau's jawfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Castelnau's jawfish live?
The Castelnau's jawfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Castelnau's jawfish get?
The Castelnau's jawfish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Castelnau's jawfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Castelnau's jawfish is harmless to humans.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Opistognathus
More from the family Opistognathidae
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