Nature Field Guide
Barberfish
- Spanish name
- Mariposa barbero
- Scientific name
- Johnrandallia nigrirostris
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Pico: “It looks like a little yellow disc.”
Tati: “The black markings and the small pointed mouth give us more clues.”
Species overview
About the Barberfish
The barberfish is a butterflyfish with a strongly flattened, oval body. Yellow body and fin colors contrast with a pale head and dark bands. Its small mouth sits at the end of a short pointed snout.
The head markings are useful when comparing it with other yellow reef fish. A clear side view shows the disc-like shape, while a front view emphasizes how narrow the body is. Use multiple features rather than color alone.
The species is documented in Isla del Coco park material. Observations should record whether a fish was swimming alone or near others without assuming that one sighting describes its entire population.
Identification
Key Features of the Barberfish
A flattened, oval, disc-like body.
A yellow body and fins with contrasting dark head markings.
A small mouth at the end of a short pointed snout.
Habitat & range
Reef-associated settings in the eastern Pacific, with documented occurrence at Isla del Coco.
Local observations
The Isla del Coco tourism plan lists barberfish among its documented marine species. No current local population number is established here.
When to observe
Observations depend on route, visibility, currents and animal movements. No fixed viewing season or guaranteed sighting is established by this profile.
Conservation & care
Follow park rules and qualified guides. Do not feed, touch, chase or collect marine wildlife. Maintain distance and avoid contact with reef habitat.
Observation activity
Use a verified identification image to sketch three distinguishing features. During any guided observation, record the place, date and behavior without moving closer to the animal.