Fin's Fish Guide
The Panama jawfish (Opistognathus panamaensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Opistognathidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The Panama jawfish is a jawfish (Opistognathidae) from shallow sand and rubble water of the eastern Pacific, off Central America. 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 Panama jawfish?
The Panama jawfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Panama jawfish live?
The Panama jawfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Colombia, Panama, Cocos I. (C.R.)
How big does the Panama jawfish get?
The Panama jawfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Panama jawfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Panama 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.
Want the complete picture on the Panama jawfish?
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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 Panama jawfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Panama jawfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.