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Goatfish are usually found kicking up dust on the bottom in a never-ending quest for worms and small crustaceans. The white "weke" (Hawaiian for "ghost") was reputed to produce hallucinations (if consumed during summer months), and became the sacrifice in many ancient Hawaiian ceremonies.
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The black-banded goatfish ("moana") parupeneus multifasciatus is commonly found in fish markets, but goatfish shift colours with ease, so look for chin whiskers (barbels) ! |
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Whitesaddle Goatfish ("kumu") Parupeneus porphyreus are named after the light spot just in front of their tails. They are a favourite target of spear fisherman, and welcome at just about every dinner table in Hawai'i.Red goatfish were also used as offerings to ensure success in pregnancy, when launching canoes, and other ventures. ! |
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Goatfish are not true mullets, they are Mullidae, not Mugilidae. |
