Common name: twospot goatfish

General information

The Pink Goatfish, scientifically known as Parupeneus rubescens, is a colorful and active species that adds both beauty and intrigue to a saltwater aquarium. This species is known for its distinctive pink to reddish coloration and the pair of barbels located on its chin, which it uses to sift through the substrate in search of food.

Care

Pink Goatfish are relatively hardy and can adapt to a variety of tank conditions, but they do best in larger aquariums that provide plenty of space for swimming and a sandy bottom for foraging. They are not reef-safe as they may disturb the substrate and stress or damage invertebrates and corals while searching for food.

Reproduction

In the wild, Pink Goatfish are known to form large spawning aggregations, but breeding them in captivity is challenging and not commonly done by hobbyists. Their reproductive behaviors are not well-documented in home aquariums.

Habitat

Parupeneus rubescens is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Line Islands and Tuamotu Archipelago, north to southern Japan, and south to New Caledonia. They typically inhabit sandy areas and seagrass beds adjacent to coral reefs, often at depths ranging from 1 to 70 meters.