Fin's Fish Guide
The Swordtail jawfish (Lonchopisthus micrognathus) is a saltwater fish of the family Opistognathidae that grows up to 18 cm.
North America: Cuba, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Trinidad Tobago, USA, Venezuela
Description
The swordtail jawfish is a jawfish (Opistognathidae) from coastal waters of the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a slender, pale body with a large mouth and a long, tapering tail. As a bottom-dweller it digs a vertical burrow in sand and mud bottoms, from which it protrudes its forebody to snap at passing zooplankton; when threatened it withdraws into the burrow. The male broods the eggs in his mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Swordtail jawfish?
The Swordtail jawfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Swordtail jawfish live?
The Swordtail jawfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. North America: Cuba, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Trinidad Tobago, USA, Venezuela
How big does the Swordtail jawfish get?
The Swordtail jawfish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Swordtail jawfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Swordtail 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 Swordtail jawfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Swordtail jawfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.