Manybar Goatfish

The manybar goatfish is a tropical marine species known for its distinctive appearance, with multiple dark bars on its body. Found across the Indo-Pacific, it inhabits coral reefs and sandy areas. This fish is popular among anglers and aquarium enthusiasts due to its striking colors and active behavior. It primarily feeds on crustaceans and small invertebrates during the day.
Length~17 (max 35)
Weight~0.5 (max 1)
WaterSalt
Water Temp23-27° F
Depth161 ft
- Other names-
- Length~17 (max 35)
- Weight~0.5 (max 1)
- WaterSalt
- Water Temp23-27° F
- Depth161 ft
Popular lures for Manybar Goatfish
Regulation for Manybar Goatfish
- SeasonAlways open
- Bag limitNo limit (Statewide)
- Vessel limit-
- Trophy limits-
- Max size-
- Min size7" (Statewide); 8" (Maui)
- MeasurementFork Length
- Prohibited methods-
Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- Prefers reef-associated environments, often found on sand patches, rubble, or coral bottoms
- Commonly seen in shallow lagoons and reef flats, where it can forage for food
- The manybar goatfish is often observed during the day, actively searching for small crustaceans and other prey
- It may occasionally form small schools, particularly in areas with abundant food sources
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- The manybar goatfish exhibits benthic behavior, staying close to the bottom of the reef or lagoon during most of its life
- Spawning typically occurs in specific seasons, though details on timing are limited
- Juveniles often inhabit shallower waters, moving to deeper areas as they mature
- As they grow, they develop their characteristic bars, which are used for both camouflage and social signaling