Fin's Fish Guide
The Sidespot goatfish (Parupeneus pleurostigma) is a saltwater fish of the family Mullidae that grows up to 33 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel) and others
Description
The Sidespot goatfish is a goatfish (Mullidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 33 cm and has an elongate body with a pair of long barbels under the chin. A conspicuous dark blotch with a white zone behind it stands out on the flank. With the barbels it probes sand and reef bottoms for worms, crustaceans and molluscs. It is a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sidespot goatfish?
The Sidespot goatfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Sidespot goatfish live?
The Sidespot goatfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel) and others
How big does the Sidespot goatfish get?
The Sidespot goatfish grows to a maximum of about 33 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Sidespot goatfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Sidespot 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 Sidespot goatfish edible?
Yes, the Sidespot goatfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Sidespot goatfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sidespot goatfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.