Bicolor Goatfish

The Bicolor Goatfish, *Parupeneus barberinus*, is a striking and active addition to a large marine aquarium. Easily recognized by its prominent barbels extending from its chin, which it uses to probe the substrate for food, this species displays a beautiful coloration. The body is primarily a silvery-white to light tan, with a distinct dark stripe running from the snout through the eye and along the lateral line to the tail. The fins are often tinged with yellow or orange.

A minimum tank size of 125 gallons is recommended to accommodate the Bicolor Goatfish’s active nature and potential adult size. Provide a sandy substrate, as they spend a significant amount of time sifting through it for invertebrates. Live rock is also beneficial, offering hiding places and additional foraging opportunities. While generally peaceful towards other fish, they may consume smaller invertebrates like shrimp and crabs. They are not considered reef safe as they will disturb corals and invertebrates while searching for food.

In the wild, Bicolor Goatfish are carnivorous, feeding on a variety of benthic invertebrates. In the aquarium, they should be offered a varied diet of high-quality frozen and live foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, chopped seafood, and other meaty preparations. They will also readily accept sinking pellets and flakes.

Distinguishing between male and female Bicolor Goatfish is difficult, and breeding in captivity is not common. They can reach a size of up to 12 inches in the wild, but typically remain smaller in an aquarium setting, often reaching around 8-10 inches.