Fin's Fish Guide
The Gilbert's jawfish (Opistognathus gilberti) is a saltwater fish of the family Opistognathidae that grows up to 6 cm.
North America: Bahamas, Honduras, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Virgin Is. (US)
Description
The Gilbert's jawfish is a jawfish (Opistognathidae) from shallow sand and rubble water of the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has an elongate, pale body with large eyes and a very large mouth. Characteristically it uses its mouth to build a burrow in the soft bottom, reinforces it with pebbles and hovers upright above it; when in danger it dives in. The male broods the eggs in his mouth. It snaps at passing zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gilbert's jawfish?
The Gilbert's jawfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Gilbert's jawfish live?
The Gilbert's jawfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Bahamas, Honduras, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Virgin Is. (US)
How big does the Gilbert's jawfish get?
The Gilbert's jawfish grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Gilbert's jawfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Gilbert's jawfish 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.
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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 Gilbert's jawfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gilbert's jawfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.