The Yellowfin goby (Acanthogobius flavimanus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The yellowfin goby is a robust estuarine goby of the family Gobiidae reaching about 30 cm. The brown-spotted body has yellowish fins, from which the species takes its name; like other gobies the pelvic fins are fused into a sucking disc. The species comes from East Asia and lives in brackish and fresh estuarine and coastal water around Japan, Korea and China, on sand and mud bottoms, where it tolerates strongly varying salinity. As a bottom-dweller it hunts small crustaceans, worms, molluscs and small fish. In winter the male digs a Y-shaped burrow and guards the eggs. Through ballast water and aquaculture it has spread to the west coast of North America and Australia, where it becomes invasive. In East Asia it is a valued food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellowfin goby?
The Yellowfin goby has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Yellowfin goby live?
The Yellowfin goby lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Yellowfin goby get?
The Yellowfin goby grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Yellowfin goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellowfin goby is harmless to humans.
Is the Yellowfin goby edible?
Yes, the Yellowfin goby is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Acanthogobius
More from the family Gobiidae
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