Variable Jawfish

Opistognathus variabilis, commonly known as the Variable Jawfish, is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution due to its burrowing behavior which can sometimes disturb delicate corals or tank structures. It is admired for its variable coloration ranging from sandy yellows to blues and browns, large expressive eyes, and distinctive jaw structure used for digging and carrying mouthfuls of sand.

Males typically exhibit brighter coloration and are more territorial, often seen guarding their burrows, while females/juveniles tend to be smaller with more subdued colors and less pronounced territorial behavior. They reach about 4 to 5 inches in adult size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 30 gallons, with ample substrate space for burrowing.

Provide a deep sandbed for digging, plenty of live rock for shelter and hiding spots, and open swimming space. Stable water parameters should be maintained with salinity around 1.020–1.025, temperature between 72–79°F, and pH levels from 8.1–8.4. A secure lid is essential, as jawfish are prone to jumping when startled or stressed.

Diet should consist of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and high-quality sinking pellets. They appreciate a varied diet and will benefit from live or frozen foods to mimic their natural feeding habits.

With proper care, the Variable Jawfish makes a captivating and functional addition to marine aquariums, known for its interesting behaviors and substrate maintenance.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.