Cardinal Goatfish
Parupeneus ciliatus
Also known as: Blacksaddle Goatfish, Blackspot Goatfish, Dash-and-Dot Goatfish, Diamondscale Goatfish, Diamond-scaled Goatfish, Rosy Goatfish, Whiteline Goatfish, White-lined Goatfish, Whitesaddle Goatfish
- Blacksaddle Goatfish
- Blackspot Goatfish
- Dash-and-Dot Goatfish
- Diamondscale Goatfish
- Diamond-scaled Goatfish
- Rosy Goatfish
- Whiteline Goatfish
- White-lined Goatfish
- Whitesaddle Goatfish
Overview
Found in small schools, foraging for food over algae and seagrass beds, of lagoons and seaward reefs rich in algae and seaweed growth.
Length 38cm
Goatfish have two barbels extending form the chin, these are used to probe the sand for food such as worms, brittle stars, crustaceans and small fish.
They often have other fish in tow which hoover up any creatures left behind.
Some Goatfish can rapidly change colour and spots that were there magically disappear!
How to identify
Tap any trait to see other fish that share it.
Habitat & where to find it
- Range · Indo-Pacific
- Exact location · 1
- Country only · 3
Found in small schools, foraging for food over algae and seagrass beds, of lagoons and seaward reefs rich in algae and seaweed growth.
Adult photos 4
Discussion
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Deep dive
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