Goatfishes
Gold-saddle goatfish (Parupeneus cyclostomus)
The Gold-saddle goatfish (Parupeneus cyclostomus) belongs to the family Mullidae (goatfishes) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is a carnivore and usually seen in groups or alone. It reaches about 35 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.

Quick facts
| Scientific name | Parupeneus cyclostomus |
|---|---|
| Family | Goatfishes (Mullidae) |
| Common name (IT) | Triglia dal muso giallo |
| Common name (EN) | Gold-saddle goatfish |
| Maximum size | 35 cm |
| Depth | 1–50 m |
| Distribution | Red Sea and Indo-Pacific |
| IUCN status | LC — Least Concern |
Description
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Where it lives
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
- Red Sea
- Indo-Pacific
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Gold-saddle goatfish belong to?
- The Gold-saddle goatfish (Parupeneus cyclostomus) belongs to the family Mullidae (goatfishes).
- Is the Gold-saddle goatfish dangerous?
- It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Gold-saddle goatfish endemic to the Red Sea?
- No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
- How big does the Gold-saddle goatfish get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 35 cm.
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