The Red Goatfish, Parupeneus multifasciatus, also known as the Manybar Goatfish has a black/red body bisected by a thick cream-colored line and muted black lines. Like other goatfish species, the Red Goatfish has beard-like appendages called “barbels” dangling off of their lower lip used to probe the sand for sources of food.

Caring for a goatfish is slightly nuanced but not difficult. They require a tank of at least 100 gallons and plenty of free and open swimming space. Tanks should also have a sandy substrate allowing the Red Goatfish to sift through the sand with its barbels in search of food. Due to this activity, the Red Goatfish can actually be a beneficial tank member as a sand sifter. They are best housed with non-aggressive fish.

The Red Goatfish eats a carnivorous diet consisting of crustaceans, clams, worms, but will readily accept frozen meaty foods such as brine or mysis shrimp. They should be fed 3-4 times per day.