Yellow-Head Jawfish (Opistognathus aurifrons)

Fish in the family Opistognathidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.

Yellow-Head Jawfish

Quick facts

Scientific nameOpistognathus aurifrons
FamilyOpistognathidae
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyReef Safe with Caution
TemperamentPeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Adult size4 in
Minimum tank size30 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025
Feeding schedule1-2 times daily

Appearance

The Yellow-Head Jawfish has a pale or whitish body with a distinctive bright yellow head and upper body region. It features a pointed snout, large mouth adapted for sifting sand, and grows to about 4 inches in length.

Diet and feeding

Feed small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Offer 1–2 times daily in small portions to ensure food reaches the substrate where the jawfish forages.

Difficulty and care for the Yellow-Head Jawfish

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Common health issues

Marine Ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disorder, Bacterial Infections, Fungal Infections

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Hawaiian Islands.

Log Yellow-Head Jawfish 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 Yellow-Head Jawfish alongside everything else in your reef.