Upeneus tragula

Datasheet

General Description

The Freckled goatfish (Upeneus tragula) belongs to the Mullidae family, known for their characteristic "beard" used to search for food in the sand. With common names like Darkband goatfish and Bar-tailed goatfish, this species can grow up to 25.0cm in size. It is distributed from the Eastern Indian Ocean to the Western Pacific, spanning regions from the Andaman Islands to Japan and New Caledonia.

Aquarium Suitability

Considered average in hardiness, the Freckled goatfish is more suited for experienced aquarists due to their demanding care needs. Their docile temperament requires careful consideration when housed with more aggressive tank mates. Furthermore, they are known to be a threat to small fishes, crustaceans, worms, snails, and other invertebrates.

Demands, Care and Hardiness

These fish have specific dietary requirements and are prone to malnutrition in captivity. Feeding them a varied diet 4-5 times a day is essential but challenging as they quickly deplete natural food sources in the tank. While they are predators preying on small fish and crustaceans, they also need space for swimming, making a tank of at least 1500 liters necessary to accommodate their needs.

Reef Suitability

Categorized as reef safe with caution, the Freckled goatfish can be housed in a reef aquarium, but attention should be paid to potential threats to small invertebrates and crustaceans.

Aquarium Setup

Setting up an aquarium for Freckled goatfish should include a large open area with a mix of sand and coral gravel. This setup mimics their natural habitat, providing ample space for foraging in the substrate. Additionally, ensuring multiple feeding spots and frequent feedings is crucial to meet their dietary requirements.

Behaviour

Known for their shy and docile nature, these goatfish species thrive in environments where they have plenty of space to swim. They are also prone to jumping out of open tanks, so securing the aquarium is vital to prevent escapes.

Feeding and Diet

Their diet should consist of fish, larger crustaceans, small crustaceans, other invertebrates, and zooplankton to ensure proper nutrition. Meeting their dietary needs is crucial for their overall health and well-being in captivity.

Habitat and Distribution

In the wild, Freckled goatfish are found in the Eastern Indian Ocean through to the Western Pacific, inhabiting areas from Australia to Japan and New Caledonia. Their natural behavior includes searching through the sand for food, which can disrupt the substrate and impact water clarity in the aquarium.