Southern Goatfish

Scientific Name: Upeneichthys vlamingii

Description: The Southern Goatfish is a common species in the Marine Sanctuary often seen fossicking through sand patches at the edges of the reef.

They are variable in colour but most often whitish to pale pink with a brownish to reddish stripe along the side and blue markings, while at night these fish appear bright red in colour.

Goatfish are easily distinguished by their active foraging behaviours and the two long barbels beneath their chin, used in locating prey in the sand. These include crustaceans, polychaete worms, and occasionally small fishes.

Type: Bony Fish
Where to find: Subtidal Reefs
Size: 40cm