Fin's Fish Guide
The Goatfish (Mulloidichthys dentatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Mullidae that grows up to 31 cm.
Eastern Pacific; sand, mud and rocky bottoms of shallow coastal waters.
Description
The Mexican goatfish is a goatfish of the family Mullidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 31 cm and has a streamlined, silvery body with a yellow longitudinal stripe and a pair of long barbels under the chin. With those sensitive barbels it probes the sand, mud and rock bottoms of shallow coastal waters for prey. It often forages in schools. As a bottom searcher it feeds on small invertebrates such as crustaceans and worms. The Mexican 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 horizontal stripes pattern. Yellow longitudinal stripe and long chin barbels for probing the bottom; forages in shoals.
Where does the Goatfish live?
The Goatfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific; sand, mud and rocky bottoms of shallow coastal waters.
How big does the Goatfish get?
The Goatfish grows to a maximum of about 31 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
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Mulloidichthys
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.