Origin

Indo-Pacific, Caribbean

Tank Temperature

75-82°F

pH

8.0-8.4

Specific Gravity

1.020-1.024

Feeding

Carnivorous; feed every other day; varied diet of frozen and flake foods enriched with vitamins; brine shrimp, mussel, Daphnia, brine shrimp, bloodworms, or other meaty foods.

Behavior

Sand-dweller; peaceful; burrows, needs 4-5 inches of substrate; may eat small shrimp and other invertebrates; darts quickly; jumper, tank should have lid.

Compatibility

Community, Invert Safe, and Reef Safe

Species Overview

Jawfish inhabit sandy, rubble-strewn areas on reefs, and are found in close proximity to their burrows they create in the substrate. They tend to be shy and wary of fish and other intruders in their territory. Most often you'll only see their large eyes and rounded head bobbing in and out of the opening to their burrow, which is part of their charm. Jawfish will often "decorate" the entrance to their burrow with larger bits of shell or rocks. Make sure rockwork is firmly on the bottom of the tank as they will burrow and unstable rockwork may collapse, injuring the jawfish, other fish, or invertebrates. It is best to provide a deep sandbed and a supply of small rubble and shells for the jawfish to use in construction.

Known for being "jumpers" when startled or frightened, Jawfish are best kept with other docile fish, and the tank should have a tight-fitting lid. They spend much of their time hidden in their burrows, and will not bother other tank inhabitants. Jawfish may display a wide open-mouth to deter intruders, but though they put on an impressive show, they rarely pursue tank mates. Some jawfish, like the popular Yellowhead Jawfish, may be kept in groups, but most others are best kept alone to avoid territorial disputes in the aquarium.

We always suggest that you do further research before adding a new pet to your tank. What we have provided for you are guidelines and suggestions. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact our fish room at 717-299-5691 ext. 1213 or marinebio@thatpetplace.com.

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