Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded goatfish (Mulloidichthys vanicolensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Mullidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The yellowfin goatfish is a goatfish from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a silvery body with a yellow lateral stripe and yellow fins, and a pair of long chin barbels with which it probes sand and crevices for food. By day it often rests in large, stationary schools above the reef; at night it spreads out to hunt small bottom crustaceans and worms. 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 yellow-gold and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Long chin barbels and a yellow stripe; rests in shoals during the day, hunts at night
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 40 cm. On average the species is around 25 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
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.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mulloidichthys
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.