Fin's Fish Guide
The Bar-tailed goatfish (Upeneus japonicus) is a saltwater fish of the family Mullidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The bar-tailed goatfish is a goatfish (Mullidae) from the western Pacific, around Japan, Korea and China. The species reaches about 16 cm and has a streamlined, reddish body and a tail fin with dark cross-bars. Under the chin it bears a pair of long barbels with which it probes the sand for prey. It is widespread in sandy areas from coastal waters to about 200 m deep. The diet consists of small bottom invertebrates such as worms, crustaceans and molluscs. The species is eaten locally.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bar-tailed goatfish?
The Bar-tailed goatfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Long chin barbels for probing the sandy bottom; banded caudal fin.
Where does the Bar-tailed goatfish live?
The Bar-tailed goatfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Pacific, around Japan, Korea and China.
How big does the Bar-tailed goatfish get?
The Bar-tailed goatfish grows to a maximum of about 16 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Bar-tailed goatfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Bar-tailed goatfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bar-tailed goatfish edible?
The Bar-tailed goatfish is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Bar-tailed goatfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bar-tailed 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 Upeneus
More from the family Mullidae
Want the complete picture on the Bar-tailed goatfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bar-tailed goatfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.