Fin's Fish Guide
The Finespotted jawfish (Opistognathus punctatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Opistognathidae that grows up to 41 cm.
Description
The finespotted jawfish is a large jawfish (Opistognathidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species reaches about 40 cm, has an elongate body, a large head with a wide mouth and a fine spotted pattern. It digs a vertical burrow in sand and gravel bottoms, which it constantly cleans and repairs and into which it retreats when threatened. The fish is active at night and hunts small fishes, crustaceans and other invertebrates. Like other jawfishes the male broods the eggs in its mouth. The species is strongly site-attached and territorial.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Finespotted jawfish?
The Finespotted jawfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Digs and maintains a vertical burrow; the male broods the eggs in its mouth.
Where does the Finespotted jawfish live?
The Finespotted jawfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific, from the Gulf of California to Peru.
How big does the Finespotted jawfish get?
The Finespotted jawfish grows to a maximum of about 41 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Finespotted jawfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Finespotted jawfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Finespotted jawfish edible?
The Finespotted jawfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Opistognathus
More from the family Opistognathidae
Want the complete picture on the Finespotted jawfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Finespotted jawfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.