Mullidae
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
Overview
The goatfishes have elongate bodies, two separate dorsal fins, a forked caudal fin, and ctenoid scales. The most distinguishable goatfish attribute is the long barbels present on the chin that are employed to locate food. They also use them to flip over rubble, probe soft sediments, and flush prey from reef crevices.
Most live and feed on sand or mud bottoms—often adjacent to coral reefs—while some rest and feed on hard substrates. Other goatfishes prefer seagrass habitats. These fishes feed mostly on invertebrates, although at least two species are also piscivorous. Opportunistic predators often follow the mullids to capture prey exposed by their activities.
BioGroup:
Native range:
Taxonomic rank: Family
Common name: GOATFISHES
| Total known | Total profiles | |
|---|---|---|
| Subfamilies | 6 | 0 |
| Genera | 0 | 2 |
| Species | 55 | 2 |
Captive care: A number of goatfishes are available in the marine fish trade. They are active fishes that need plenty of swimming room and an open expanse of sand substrate (5 cm [2 in.] deep) in which to grub. They will help stir and aerate the sand on the bottom of an aquarium and are good scavengers, even taking noxious bristleworms and mantis shrimp.
Feeding: Ever-hungry juveniles should be fed at least three times per day with meaty fresh or frozen foods. An established bed of sand with a healthy population of small crustaceans and infaunal worms will help provide captive goatfishes with a constant source of live foods.
Notes: Some individuals suffer from intestinal worms and will become skinny and die, even though they continue to feed. Be prepared to deworm these fishes if they feed well but still grow thin.
Subfamilies
none
Genera
- Mulloidichthys
- Parupeneus
Species
- Bicolor Goatfish
- Yellowsaddle Goatfish