The Dusky Jawfish (Opistognathus whitehurstii) is a cryptic jawfish species native to the Western Atlantic Ocean.

Distribution and Habitat

Found in the Western Atlantic Ocean from Florida to Brazil, including the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico, inhabits sandy bottoms near coral reefs at depths of 3-30 meters.

Physical Description

Reaches 10 cm, has a pale brownish body with darker mottling, elongated body with large eyes and a large mouth, coloration provides camouflage against the sandy substrate.

Diet and Feeding

Carnivorous, feeds on small crustaceans, polychaetes, and zooplankton in the wild, in captivity accepts frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and prepared carnivore foods.

Behavior and Reproduction

Excavates burrows in sandy substrates where it retreats when threatened, typically found singly or in pairs, males are mouthbrooders carrying eggs in their mouths until hatching.

Aquarium Care

Requires a tank of at least 30 gallons with a deep sand bed of 3-4 inches for burrowing, peaceful toward tankmates but may be territorial toward other jawfish, provide a secure lid as they are known jumpers.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.