Upeneus

Upeneus is a genus of fish in the family Mullidae, commonly known as goatfish. These fish are found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific and Atlantic oceans. They are characterized by two dorsal fins, the first spiny and the second soft-rayed, and a pair of barbels that extend from the chin. These barbels are sensory organs used to detect prey buried in the sand.

Goatfish are typically small to medium-sized, with elongated bodies and forked tails. Their coloration varies widely, but many species display bright patterns of red, yellow, and white, often with stripes or spots. They inhabit a variety of marine environments, including coral reefs, rocky shores, and sandy bottoms, where they forage for small invertebrates such as crustaceans, mollusks, and worms.

Species within the genus Upeneus include the striped red mullet (Upeneus tragula), the red goatfish (Upeneus asymmetricus), and the yellowsaddle goatfish (Upeneus quadrilateralis), among many others. Some species are commercially important for food, while others are popular in aquariums. Their distinctive barbels and vibrant colors make them easily recognizable inhabitants of their respective marine ecosystems.