Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded goatfish (Parupeneus multifasciatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Mullidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Description
The manybar goatfish is a goatfish from the Indo-Pacific, ranging from Christmas Island to Hawaii and the Tuamotu Islands, north to southern Japan. The species grows to about 35 cm and has a body that can change from grey to red, with dark bars on the caudal peduncle. Beneath the chin it carries a pair of long barbels with which it probes the sand for prey. It lives on sand and coral bottoms of reefs to over 160 metres depth and eats small crabs, shrimp, molluscs and fish eggs by day. It is a valued food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded goatfish?
The Banded goatfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. A pair of long chin barbels for searching the sand for prey; can change colour quickly
Where does the Banded goatfish live?
The Banded goatfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Banded goatfish get?
The Banded goatfish grows to a maximum of about 35 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Banded goatfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded 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.
Is the Banded goatfish edible?
Yes, the Banded goatfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Parupeneus
More from the family Mullidae
Want the complete picture on the Banded goatfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded goatfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.