Goatfish
Forrest Frederick
|
Parupeneus barberinoides |
Of the vast majority of species of fish in the ocean, one of the most unique is the goatfish. Goatfish are unique because of the whiskers, or barbels, on their lower chin that are used to sift through substrate looking for worms, crustaceans, and other small invertebrates. In the wild, goatfish school near the bottom of reefs sifting for food. |
Goatfish are considered reef safe with caution, meaning they are safe around most corals but may eat crabs, snails, and shrimp. They thrive with meaty, frozen food. Formula One, Mysis Shrimp, and Krill will provide a healthy, various diet. They need to be fed 2-3 times a day in smaller feedings because of their active swimming and constant movement. Goatfish also |
Mulloidichthys martinicus |
change colors depending on their activity.
A yellow goatfish may change from bright yellow to a white-pale color during feeding. When they are not feeding or are in an inactive state, yellow goatfish may change to a marble or brown red. The two most common species of goatfish kept in captivity are the yellow goatfish and the bicolored goatfish. Both may reach sizes between 12-15 inches. |
|
|
|
|
|