Species guide
How to catch Dotdash goatfish
Parupeneus barberinus
saltwatergame fishMullidae
The dotdash goatfish is a common saltwater species found in tropical reefs and sandy areas. It is known for its distinctive body pattern and is a sought-after game fish. This fish primarily hunts invertebrates on sandy bottoms.
Where they live
Found in shallow to deep waters up to 100 meters in tropical and subtropical Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Ocean regions. Prefers sand patches, reef flats, lagoons, and seaward reefs.
Typical size
Up to about 60 cm
What they eat
- polychaete worms
- crustaceans
- gammaridean amphipods
- harpacticoid copepods
- small sand-dwelling invertebrates
Best baits
- shrimp
- small crustaceans
- worm baits
Best lures
- small jigs
- soft plastic lures
- bottom bouncers
How to fish for them
- bottom fishing
- light tackle jigging
- drift fishing
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