Fin's Fish Guide
The Goatfish (Parupeneus indicus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Mullidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Indo-West Pacific; shallow sand, silt and seagrass bottoms of coastal waters.
Description
The Indian goatfish is a goatfish of the family Mullidae from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 45 cm and has a streamlined body with a yellow spot on the back and a black spot on the tail stem, and a pair of long barbels under the chin. With those sensitive barbels it probes shallow sand, silt and seagrass bottoms of coastal waters for hidden prey. As a bottom searcher it feeds on small crustaceans, worms, molluscs and small fishes. The Indian goatfish is a valued food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Goatfish?
The Goatfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Yellow dorsal blotch and a black blotch on the caudal peduncle; long chin barbels for probing the bottom for prey.
Where does the Goatfish live?
The Goatfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; shallow sand, silt and seagrass bottoms of coastal waters.
How big does the Goatfish get?
The Goatfish grows to a maximum of about 45 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Goatfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Goatfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Goatfish edible?
Yes, the Goatfish is commonly eaten.
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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 Goatfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Goatfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.