Manybar Goatfish

Parupeneus multifasciatus

Manybar Goatfish is a reef-associated goatfish of the Indo-Pacific, often seen foraging close to the bottom in shallow coastal waters. It uses chin barbels to probe sand and rubble for small invertebrates and is a minor angling target rather than a major gamefish.

Saltwater

Manybar Goatfish reference image — Rickard Zerpe, cc-by, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Identification points

Two distinct yellow stripes running lengthwise on the body
Numerous narrow vertical bars on the sides
Pair of chin barbels used for bottom foraging

Habitat

Shallow coral reefs, reef flats, lagoon edges, sand and rubble bottoms, and drop-offs near structure; typically close to the seabed in clear tropical marine waters.

Bait notes

Best on small pieces of shrimp, squid, clam, or fish strip fished near bottom; small scented soft plastics and tiny jigheads can also work when cast close to reef edge.

Behavior

Benthic feeder that actively stirs sand and crevices with its barbels to locate crustaceans, worms, mollusks, and small fish. Often moves in small groups and may follow larger fish to pick off disturbed prey.

Caution

Handle carefully because goatfish spines can prick; dorsal spines are sharp. Local reef-fish consumption advisories may apply, and ciguatera risk can exist in some tropical reef areas.

Fishing notes

Use light tackle and a small hook with minimal weight to keep bait just off the bottom near sand patches beside reef. A slow hop or dead-sticked presentation is effective; avoid snaggy coral when fighting fish.