Opistognathus aurifrons – Yellowhead Jawfish (Jack in the box)

The Opistognathus aurifrons, better known as the Yellowhead Jawfish, is a popular and striking fish for marine aquariums. This small reef dweller is immediately noticeable with its bright yellow head...

The Opistognathus aurifrons , commonly known as the Yellowhead Jawfish, is a popular and striking fish for the marine aquarium. This small reef dweller is immediately noticeable with its bright yellow head and sparkling blue body. It is a peaceful fish that likes to create its own territory by digging a burrow in the sand. This makes it not only a feast for the eyes but also fascinating to observe. The Opistognathus aurifrons is ideal for both novice and experienced marine aquarium keepers and is known for its peaceful nature and unique behavior. With proper care and aquarium setup, this fish can be a colorful addition to your underwater world for years to come.

Features

• Latin name: Opistognathus aurifrons
• Common name: Yellowhead Jawfish
• Maximum length: approximately 10 cm
• Colour: Bright yellow head with light blue to white body
• Behavior: peaceful, territorial, likes to dig holes
• Suitable for: reef aquariums from 100 liters
• Origin: West Atlantic, Caribbean

Care

• Minimum aquarium size: 100 liters with a deep sand layer
• Water parameters: temperature 24–27°C, salinity 1.022–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4
• Diet: A varied diet of frozen food such as mysis, artemia and minced fish
• Behavior: Peaceful towards other fish, can be shy with aggressive species
• Housing: Provide ample hiding places and stable rocks, avoid loose stones
• Do not combine with large predatory fish or very dominant species.