The Javelin goby (Acanthogobius hasta) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The javelin goby is a fairly large goby from the northwest Pacific, occurring in Japan, Korea and China. It can reach 50 cm, although adults are usually 30 to 40 cm. The elongate body carries two separate dorsal fins, typical of gobies. The fish lives on sand and mud bottoms in bays and estuaries and tolerates salt, brackish and fresh water. It feeds on shrimp, fish and crabs. The species grows fast, lives only about one year, and a female carries some 60,000 eggs. It is a commercially valued food fish; the IUCN assesses it as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Javelin goby?
The Javelin goby has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Javelin goby live?
The Javelin goby lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Javelin goby get?
The Javelin goby grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Javelin goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Javelin goby is harmless to humans.
Is the Javelin goby edible?
Yes, the Javelin goby is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
Same genus Acanthogobius
More from the family Gobiidae
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