Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue-lined goatfish (Upeneichthys lineatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Mullidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The blue-lined goatfish is a goatfish from the southwest Pacific, along eastern Australia. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a reddish body with conspicuous blue lines over the head and flank and a pair of long chin barbels, characteristic of goatfishes. With these sensory barbels it searches sandy bottoms for small crustaceans and invertebrates, between 5 and 100 metres depth. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue-lined goatfish?
The Blue-lined goatfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Long chin barbels for searching the sandy bottom; blue lines on the head
Where does the Blue-lined goatfish live?
The Blue-lined goatfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southwest Pacific
How big does the Blue-lined goatfish get?
The Blue-lined goatfish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Blue-lined goatfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blue-lined 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 Blue-lined goatfish edible?
Yes, the Blue-lined goatfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Blue-lined goatfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue-lined 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 Upeneichthys
More from the family Mullidae
Want the complete picture on the Blue-lined goatfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue-lined goatfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.