Fin's Fish Guide
The Yellowhead jawfish (Opistognathus aurifrons) is a saltwater fish of the family Opistognathidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The yellowhead jawfish is a jawfish (Opistognathidae) from the western Atlantic Ocean. The species has a yellowish head and a pale-blue, elongate body with large eyes and a large mouth. With its mouth it digs a vertical burrow of crushed coral and sand, above which it hovers upright in the water and into which it dives backward when threatened. It plucks zooplankton from the current. The male broods the eggs in his mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellowhead jawfish?
The Yellowhead jawfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Digs a vertical burrow and hovers upright above it; the male is a mouthbrooder.
Where does the Yellowhead jawfish live?
The Yellowhead jawfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic; sandy and rubble bottoms near reefs.
How big does the Yellowhead jawfish get?
The Yellowhead jawfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Yellowhead jawfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellowhead jawfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Yellowhead jawfish edible?
The Yellowhead jawfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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 Yellowhead jawfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellowhead jawfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.