Variable Jawfish
Opistognathus variabilis
| Stock | Variations | Price | Quantity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Out of Stock | 2 - 3" - Indo-Pacific | Original price was: $122.99.$64.99Current price is: $64.99. | Email me |
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| Care Level | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Reef Safe | Yes |
| Functional Benefit | Ornamental Only |
| Diet Type | Carnivore |
| Mininum Tank Size | 30 gallons |
| Max Size | 4 inches |
| Temperature | 72–78°F |
| pH Range | 8.1–8.4 |
| Specific Gravity | 1.022–1.025 |
The Variable Jawfish (Opistognathus variabilis) is a burrowing jawfish known for its changeable body patterning and bottom-dwelling “lookout” behavior near its home site. In the aquarium it becomes a sandbed architect, building and maintaining a personal burrow it uses as a base for quick feeding dashes and territory checks.
What You’ll Observe:
- Hovering just above its burrow entrance, then backing in tail-first when it resets its position
- Regular sand-moving sessions that reshape a small area of the substrate around its home
- Quick, accurate feeding strikes followed by a fast retreat to the burrow
- A wide-mouth “display” and occasional sand-spitting when something cruises too close
To help it settle in, provide a deeper sandbed with a mix of fine sand plus some coarser grains so it can build a stable tunnel, and place rockwork on the tank bottom for a secure foundation. Offer small meaty foods in multiple small feedings, and keep the area around its burrow open enough for easy “dash-and-return” feeding.
Why does my jawfish keep relocating its burrow?
It’s common for jawfish to test a few spots before committing; once the substrate holds shape the fish typically settles into one primary home area.
What’s the best way to keep it from burying frags near its burrow?
Place loose frags on racks or stable rock shelves, and leave a clear “construction zone” of sand where you want the burrow to be.
Why does it open its mouth really wide at other fish?
That’s a normal jawfish territory display—often aimed at fish that pass close to the burrow entrance.
Will it spend all day out in the open once it’s settled?
Many become reliable “perch-and-watch” fish that stays visible near the burrow, with short trips to grab food or adjust the entrance.
Can I keep more than one in the same tank?
Jawfish usually do best when each individual can establish its own burrow area; if keeping multiples, plan distinct burrow zones so they can space out naturally.
Each fish is checked for strong appetite and activity before we approve it for your tank.
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