
Source: Wikimedia Commons
A charming fish that digs burrows and peeks out. Some species are mouthbrooders, a unique fish.
Jawfish (family Opistognathidae) reach the trade mainly as the yellowhead and pearly jawfish. Adults run 5-12 cm depending on species. Their appeal is burrow building: they carry sand grains and pebbles in the mouth to excavate a vertical burrow, reinforce the rim with small stones, and hover with just the head showing. Reproducing that behaviour requires a substrate of mixed grades — sand plus small rubble — at least 8-10 cm deep; fine sand alone collapses and the fish never settles. In most species the male broods the eggs in his mouth. They are shy and dive for the burrow when startled, and they jump out of open tanks very readily, so a lid is essential. Sink frozen food near the burrow and they will emerge to feed.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Jawfish lives 3-7 years.
The Jawfish grows to 5-12cm.
Origin
warmer parts of the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans
Lifespan
3-7 years
Size
5-12cm
Temperature
23〜26℃
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
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Frozen food, Artificial feed
Lid essential. May hear burrowing sounds
Lay a substrate of mixed sand grades and small rubble at least 8–10cm deep. Fine sand alone collapses and the fish never settles.
Sink frozen food near the burrow and it will come out to eat. Prepared food works too, but it is shy, so feed without startling it.
Peaceful but timid, diving into its burrow when startled. Jumping is very common, so choose calm tankmates.
In most species the male broods the eggs in his mouth. For breeding, a substrate that supports a stable burrow is the prerequisite.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The average lifespan of Jawfish is 3-7 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Jawfish typically reaches 5-12cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Jawfish feeds on: Frozen food, Artificial feed. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Jawfish varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 13, 2026