Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigscale goatfish (Pseudupeneus grandisquamis) is a saltwater fish of the family Mullidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Eastern Pacific; sand and mud bottoms near the coast and in deeper water.
Description
The bigscale goatfish is a goatfish of the family Mullidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a reddish to silvery body with relatively large scales, to which the name refers. Characteristic is a pair of long barbels under the chin, with which it probes the soft bottom for prey. Adults inhabit sand and mud bottoms near the coast but also deeper water. As a bottom searcher it feeds on small invertebrates such as crustaceans and worms. The bigscale goatfish is a valued food and bycatch fish. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigscale goatfish?
The Bigscale goatfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Relatively large scales and long chin barbels for probing the bottom for prey.
Where does the Bigscale goatfish live?
The Bigscale goatfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; sand and mud bottoms near the coast and in deeper water.
How big does the Bigscale goatfish get?
The Bigscale goatfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Bigscale goatfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigscale goatfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bigscale goatfish edible?
Yes, the Bigscale 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 Pseudupeneus
More from the family Mullidae
Want the complete picture on the Bigscale goatfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigscale goatfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.