The Yellowhead Jawfish (Opistognathus aurifrons) is one of the most popular jawfish in the marine aquarium hobby, known for its bright yellow head and entertaining behavior.

Distribution and Habitat

Found in the Western Atlantic Ocean from the Bahamas and Florida to the Caribbean and northern South America, inhabits sandy bottoms near coral reefs at depths of 3-40 meters.

Physical Description

Reaches 10 cm, has a bright yellow head and a pale bluish-white body, one of the most popular jawfish species in the aquarium trade due to its vibrant coloration.

Diet and Feeding

Carnivorous, feeds on zooplankton and small benthic invertebrates 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 spends most of its time, typically found in colonies of several individuals, males are mouthbrooders, known for its engaging personality and tendency to hover above its burrow.

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 notorious jumpers, best kept in groups of 3 or more in larger tanks.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.