Pearly Jawfish

The Pearly Jawfish, also known as the Yellowhead Jawfish, spends much of its time near a burrow, watching the surrounding water. Its pale body and yellow head often appear just above the entrance before it retreats backwards into shelter.

A suitable burrow is central to its care. Provide a substantial bed of mixed sand and small rubble, with securely supported rocks; a thin decorative sand layer is inadequate. Use a close-fitting lid because startled jawfish can jump.

Deliver small meaty foods near the burrow and verify that the fish actually takes them. Boisterous feeders and competing burrowing fish can keep a jawfish hidden or hungry. A peaceful setting lets its normal hovering and retreating behaviour emerge without forcing it to compete in open water.