The Yellowstripe Goatfish – _Mulloidichthys flavolineatus_ is a species of goatfish found in the Indo-Pacific region. This fish is a popular target for recreational fishing, and its vibrant yellow stripes make it an eye-catching sight in underwater environments.
Description & Characteristics
The _Mulloidichthys flavolineatus_ is easily recognizable by its distinctive yellow stripes that run along its body, and the barbels on its chin. These barbels are used to sense prey and help the fish find food on the ocean floor. This species can reach a maximum size of 43.0 cm.
Habitat and Occurrence
The _Mulloidichthys flavolineatus_ is found in tropical and subtropical waters across the Indo-Pacific region. Its depth range extends from 1.0 meters to 76.0 meters. The Yellowstripe Goatfish is commonly seen in coral reefs, rocky reefs, and sandy bottoms, indicating its adaptability to a variety of marine habitats. This wide distribution across diverse marine zones demonstrates its resilience and ability to thrive in different environments.
Taxonomy
The _Mulloidichthys flavolineatus_ is a member of the Mullidae family, belonging to the order Mulliformes and class Teleostei. This classification reflects the shared characteristics of this fish with other members of the family, order, and class.
Feeding
The Yellowstripe Goatfish – _Mulloidichthys flavolineatus_ is a benthic feeder, meaning it primarily feeds on organisms found on the seafloor. Its diet consists of a variety of invertebrates, including crabs, hermit crabs, sea urchins, shrimps, and snails. Using its barbels, the _Mulloidichthys flavolineatus_ meticulously searches the seabed for its prey, making it an efficient and well-adapted hunter in its marine environment.
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