Genus

Common name: Jawfish

Scientific name: Opistognathus

Opistognathus, commonly known as Jawfish, are a genus of small, burrowing fish known for their distinctive large mouths and behavior of constructing burrows in sandy substrates. They are popular in the reefkeeping hobby for their unique personalities and interesting behaviors. Jawfish are generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive tank mates. They require a tank with a thick sand bed to accommodate their burrowing habits and are known to jump, so a covered aquarium is recommended. These fish are also mouthbrooders, carrying their eggs in their mouths until they hatch.

  1. Yellowhead Jawfish (Opistognathus aurifrons)
    Common name: yellowhead jawfish
    Scientific name: Opistognathus aurifrons
  2. Banded Jawfish at Home
    Common name: spotfin jawfish
    Scientific name: Opistognathus macrognathus
  3. Jawfish mouth brooding eggs or Opistognathus randalli
    Common name: Gold-specs jawfish
    Scientific name: Opistognathus randalli
  4. Common name: Giant jawfish
    Scientific name: Opistognathus rhomaleus
  5. Blue Spotted Jawfish Opistognathus rosenblatti hides in its burrow in the sand in a coral reef.
    Common name: Blue-spotted jawfish
    Scientific name: Opistognathus rosenblatti