Fin's Fish Guide
The Higman's jawfish (Lonchopisthus higmani) is a saltwater fish of the family Opistognathidae that grows up to 14 cm.
South America: French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, Trinidad Tobago, Venezuela
Description
Higman's jawfish is a jawfish (Opistognathidae) from shallow sand and mud water of the western Atlantic. The species grows to about 12 cm and has an elongate, pale body with large eyes and a very large mouth. Characteristically it uses its mouth to build a vertical burrow in the soft bottom, above which it hovers upright and into which it dives when in danger; 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 Higman's jawfish?
The Higman's jawfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Higman's jawfish live?
The Higman's jawfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, Trinidad Tobago, Venezuela
How big does the Higman's jawfish get?
The Higman's jawfish grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Higman's jawfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Higman'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 Lonchopisthus
More from the family Opistognathidae
Want the complete picture on the Higman's jawfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Higman's jawfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.