Fin's Fish Guide
The Long-barbel goatfish (Parupeneus macronemus) is a saltwater fish of the family Mullidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Asia: Bahrain, Sri Lanka, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Comoros, Bassas da India and others
Description
The long-barbel goatfish is a goatfish (Mullidae) from the Indo-West Pacific, including the Red Sea. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a light-brown body with a dark longitudinal band, a spot on the tail base and a pair of long chin barbels with which it probes sand and reef bottoms for prey. As a bottom-oriented reef-dweller it searches for small crustaceans, worms and molluscs. It is a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Long-barbel goatfish?
The Long-barbel goatfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Long-barbel goatfish live?
The Long-barbel goatfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Bahrain, Sri Lanka, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Comoros, Bassas da India and others
How big does the Long-barbel goatfish get?
The Long-barbel goatfish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Long-barbel goatfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Long-barbel goatfish 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.
Is the Long-barbel goatfish edible?
Yes, the Long-barbel 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 Long-barbel goatfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Long-barbel goatfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.