Common name: Bartail goatfish

General information

The East African Goatfish, scientifically known as Upeneus vittatus, is a striking species recognized by its elongated body and characteristic barbels on the chin. These barbels are used to probe the sand for food, making them an interesting species to observe in a home aquarium. The body is primarily a pale color with distinctive brownish bands that run vertically along the sides, giving it the alternate name, Banded Goatfish.

Care

Upeneus vittatus requires a sandy substrate to exhibit natural foraging behavior. They are active swimmers and need ample space to roam, so a larger tank is recommended. A varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and marine fish flesh will keep them healthy. They are generally peaceful but may eat smaller shrimp and crabs, so tank mates should be chosen with care.

Reproduction

In the wild, goatfish are known to spawn in groups, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column. In the aquarium, breeding is rare, but environmental stability and proper nutrition can encourage spawning behavior.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the East African Goatfish includes sandy bottoms and coral reefs where they can be found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 100 meters. They are distributed across the Indo-West Pacific, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the western Pacific Ocean.