Fin's Fish Guide
The American freshwater goby (Ctenogobius shufeldti) is a brackish-water fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The freshwater goby is a small goby of the family Gobiidae from the western Atlantic off the east coast of North America. The species grows to about 8 cm and has an elongate, pale mottled body. Adults inhabit low-salinity waters of bays and estuaries and often enter the fresh water of rivers. As a small bottom dweller it feeds on small invertebrates, insect larvae and detritus. Gobies cling to the substrate with their fused pelvic fins. Owing to its small size the species has no fishery value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the American freshwater goby?
The American freshwater goby has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly white and shows a marbled pattern. Pale marbled little goby of low-salinity estuaries that often enters fresh river water.
Where does the American freshwater goby live?
The American freshwater goby lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic; low-salinity bays, estuaries and rivers.
How big does the American freshwater goby get?
The American freshwater goby grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the American freshwater goby dangerous to humans?
No, the American freshwater goby is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the American freshwater goby edible?
The American freshwater goby is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ctenogobius
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the American freshwater goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the American freshwater goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.