Common name: Dash-and-dot goatfish

General information

The Dash-and-dot Goatfish, scientifically known as Parupeneus barberinus, is a vibrant and active species popular among saltwater aquarium enthusiasts. This species is easily recognized by its distinctive coloration, featuring a white body with a yellow stripe running from the snout to the base of the caudal fin, and a series of dark dashes and dots along the sides. The goatfish is named for its pair of chin barbels, which it uses to probe the sand for food.

Care

Caring for Dash-and-dot Goatfish requires an aquarium with a sandy bottom to accommodate their natural foraging behavior. They are generally peaceful but can be aggressive towards smaller, more timid tank mates. A varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and marine fish flesh is essential for their health. They are active swimmers and need ample space to roam, so a larger tank is recommended.

Reproduction

In the wild, Dash-and-dot Goatfish are known to form spawning aggregations, but breeding them in captivity is challenging and rarely achieved. They are pelagic spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column.

Habitat

Dash-and-dot Goatfish are found in tropical and subtropical waters across the Indo-Pacific region. They prefer sandy and rubble substrates near coral reefs, where they can be seen foraging for invertebrates. Their depth range is from shallow lagoons to deeper waters, often up to 110 meters.