Yellowhead Jawfish

Yellowhead Jawfish (Opistognathus aurifons) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its striking yellow head contrasting with a pale body, its burrowing behavior, and distinctive large mouth used for carrying substrate and eggs. Males typically are larger with more intense yellow coloration on the head and may be more territorial, especially during breeding, while females/juveniles are smaller, with slightly duller coloration and less pronounced behaviors. They reach about 4 to 5 inches in adult size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 30 gallons.

Provide a deep sandbed for burrowing, plenty of live rock for shelter and structure, and open swimming space near the substrate. Maintain stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020-1.025, temperature ~72-79°F, pH ~8.1-8.4), and ensure a secure lid since jawfish are known jumpers. Diet should consist of a varied diet including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and high-quality pellets or frozen foods suitable for carnivorous fish.

With proper care, the Yellowhead Jawfish makes a fascinating and colorful addition to reef aquariums, admired for its unique behaviors and bright appearance.

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.