Fin's Fish Guide
The Blacksaddle goatfish (Parupeneus ciliatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Mullidae that grows up to 38 cm.
Description
The whitesaddle goatfish is a goatfish from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 38 cm and has a red-brown to olive body with a pale stripe and a dark saddle blotch near the tail, and a pair of long chin barbels with which it probes sand and crevices for food. As a bottom-dweller it searches over reef and sand bottoms for small crustaceans, worms and molluscs. It is a valued food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blacksaddle goatfish?
The Blacksaddle goatfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Long chin barbels and a dark saddle blotch; bottom-searching coral catfish
Where does the Blacksaddle goatfish live?
The Blacksaddle goatfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Blacksaddle goatfish get?
The Blacksaddle goatfish grows to a maximum of about 38 cm.
Is the Blacksaddle goatfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blacksaddle 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 Blacksaddle goatfish edible?
Yes, the Blacksaddle 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 Blacksaddle goatfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blacksaddle goatfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.