Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Peaceful

Reef Compatible: Yes

General Description: The Blue Spot Jawfish, also referred to as the Blue Dot Jawfish, is a spectacular fish endemic to the region of Baja California and western Mexico. Jawfish are among some of the most animated, poking their heads out or hovering just above their burrow observing what’s around them. The Blue spot jawfish has a yellow to orange colored body that’s completely covered in variously-shaped metallic blue spots. Because this is a burrowing fish, coarse substrates should be avoided. Additionally, the Blue spot jawfish requires a sand bed that is at least several inches deep in order to construct its burrow that provides it with security and protection. An adult Blue spot jawfish can reach a size of approximately 4″. Note: Blue spot jawfish are seasonally available.

Diet Requirements: In the wild Blue spot jawfish are carnivores. A diet largely consisting of high quality frozen preparations is necessary to maintain optimal health, coloration, and immune function. Such foods can include, but are not limited to, brine shrimp, calanus, mysis shrimp and other carnivore mixes. We highly encourage soaking frozen foods in vitamin and fatty acid supplements. Multiple, small feedings per day rather than one large feeding will also create more of a natural environment for a Blue spot jawfish as it would feed in the wild. Blue spot jawfish may accept high quality flake and sinking pellet foods. Live foods, such as brine shrimp, are an engaging treat from time to time.

Care Requirements: A well established, minimum 30 gallon aquarium is ideal for a Blue spot jawfish. A tight fitting lid is absolutely necessary because jawfish are known to be frightened easily and this can result in them jumping out of an aquarium. Blue spot jawfish are intolerable of nitrite or ammonia spikes. A variety of rock work is appreciated in order to feel secure, but such arrangements need to be foundationally solid given their burrowing nature. Jawfish require a fine to moderately-sized substrate, that is at least 3″ deep, in order to create their burrow. Do not house a Blue spot jawfish with overly aggressive and pugnacious tank-mates; jawfish can be quite shy upon introduction and such an environment will only make it more reluctant to explore. Only one Blue spot jawfish should be kept per aquarium unless they are a confirmed pair. Blue spot jawfish are not compatible with other jawfish species. The Blue spot jawfish is an overall docile species, but may show territoriality toward tank-mates (i.e., opening its mouth widely) that encroach on its burrow. A Blue spot jawfish will feel most at home in a reef aquarium setting, as they pose no threat to corals. Small shrimp may be at risk. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.

Purchase Size: Medium: 2″ to 3-1/2″

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.