Bicolor Goatfish (Parupeneus barberinoides)
Fish in the family Mullidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
Bicolor goatfish display a distinctive two-tone pattern with a bright yellow-orange head and anterior body grading to white or silvery-white posteriorly. They possess the characteristic pair of barbels (chin whiskers) typical of the goatfish family, used for foraging in substrate.
Diet and feeding
Feed primarily on small crustaceans, zooplankton, and small invertebrates. In captivity, offer high-quality meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. May accept quality flake or pellet food supplemented with live or frozen foods.
Difficulty and care for the Bicolor Goatfish
Moderate - Common sand cleaner. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.
Common health issues
Marine ich, Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder, Bacterial infections, Parasitic infestations
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific from the Red Sea and East Africa to Hawaii and French Polynesia.
Keeper notes
Common sand cleaner. Sifts sand for food. Will eat small fish and invertebrates.
Log Bicolor Goatfish in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Bicolor Goatfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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