Dotdash goatfish

The dotdash goatfish (Parupeneus barberinus) is a vibrant marine species found in tropical, reef-associated waters. It inhabits depths ranging from 1 to 100 meters (3 to 328 feet) and can reach a maximum length of 60 centimeters (about 2 feet), although it is commonly around 30 centimeters (about 1 foot) long.

This species thrives in the Indo-Pacific region, including the 🌊 Gulf of Aden, 🇴🇲 Oman, the eastern coast of Africa, and areas such as 🇫🇲 Micronesia, 🇯🇵 Japan, and 🇦🇺 Australia. Dotdash goatfish are notably abundant, with adults typically living alone or in small groups in sandy or rubble areas on reef flats, lagoons, and seaward reefs. Juvenile fish prefer shallow seagrass habitats and often mix with other species.

Dotdash goatfish are diurnal feeders and primarily feed on a variety of sand-dwelling invertebrates such as crabs, worms, bivalve molluscs, and shrimps. Interestingly, these fish migrate towards the shore for spawning and feeding. While some immature individuals may be bisexual, the species is generally classified as having distinct male and female genders.

Physically, the dotdash goatfish is moderately elongated with striking coloration. It features a whitish body marked by a dark brown to black stripe running from the upper lip through the eye. In deeper waters, this stripe may appear red. The area above the stripe can be yellow or yellowish-gray, while below, the body remains whitish. A distinctive black or red spot larger than the eye marks the base of their tail. Some adults display pale blue and yellow patterns below the dark stripe.

In terms of commercial importance, this goatfish is valued both in fisheries and aquariums, and is sometimes sought after as a gamefish. Its name is derived from Latin, 'Parupeneus' combining "parum," meaning small, and "Peneus," a river.