Multi Barred Goatfish - Medium

The Multi Barred Goatfish usually has a marked, reddish brownish body. A black mark can be found below the second dorsal fin, and there is a second one near its tail. It also has a dark patch behind the eye. The body colour can change to grey when it is excited. Males can grow to almost double the length of femals getting to 13.7 inches (35 centimetres).

Little is known about the Multi Barred Goatfishes breeding habits. Goatfish in general are pelagic spawners. They release a large number of eggs into the water which mix with the plankton, becoming part of it. The eggs float with the currents until hatching. They will stay in the larvae stage for 4-8 weeks before developing barbels. After 1-2 years, most species reach reproductive maturity.

This species is distributed across the Eastern Indian and Pacific oceans. Inhabiting places like the Hawaiian Islands, Christmas Island, and Japan. It is usually found near coral reefs between depths of 3 to 161 metres.

Tank Recommendations for the Multi Barred Goatfish

This species needs a tank that holds 150 gallons (567.8 litres) or more.

It is not suitable for reef aquariums and should be kept in a large fish only tank. There should be plenty of open water space and clear areas of substrate. This will allow the goatfish to sift through the sand.

Care needs to be taken with corals that may get damaged or knocked over as it sifts the substrate.

A secure lid is advisable to prevent jumping.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The Multi-Barred Goatfish is a peaceful species. It is best suited to a tank that house fish of a similar temperament.

It is a bottom feeder and will pose a threat to any small invertebrates.

Usually Compatible

Tank buddies should be of a similar size. Passive, friendly non-aggressive fish like Blennies, Pufferfish, Snappers and Tangs are ideal companions.

Sometime Compatible

Watch Gobies, Scorpionfish, Groupers, Triggerfish and Wrasses when keeping them with your Goatfish.

Rarely Compatible

Aggressive fish like Sharks and Eels are unsuitable tank buddies due to the goatfish’s passive nature. Small fish and crustaceans are at risk of being eaten and Seahorses and Pipefish shouldn't be housed with them.

Feeding your Mulit-Barred Goatfish

The Multi Barred Goatfish is carnivorous. It will eat a variety of frozen and fresh meaty items. Suitable products include shrimp, scallops, black worms, chopped squid, clams, and fish flesh. Feeding should take place several times per day.