About Mulloidichthys flavolineatus (Lacepède, 1801)
This species, Mulloidichthys flavolineatus, has sides that range in color from grey to white, and fins that range in color from red-orange to pure yellow. To stay safe at night, it can camouflage itself to blend into the colors of its surroundings, which stops predators from spotting it. It is a schooling species that typically feeds in large groups. The yellowstripe goatfish lives in the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean, where it inhabits nearshore sandy bottoms and shore reefs at depths of less than 100 meters. In Hawaii, this species spawns year-round, with spawning activity increasing between February and June. This species is used as food in Hawaii, and its flavor matches that of its primary food source, shrimp. After harvesting, the fish should be kept cool, and can be preserved for longer periods in a freezer. Before preparation, it must be thoroughly cleaned by removing the intestinal tract. Goatfish are a popular target for recreational fishing, and snorkelers can easily find this species across the Indo-Pacific.
