Fin's Fish Guide
The American shadow goby (Quietula y-cauda) is a brackish-water fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Eastern Pacific, on silt flats of lagoons and river mouths; sometimes in worm or shrimp burrows.
Description
The American shadow goby is a small goby (family Gobiidae) of the eastern Pacific. The species reaches about 7 cm and has an elongate, brown-grey body. It lives on mud flats of lagoons and river mouths and sometimes shelters in worm or shrimp burrows. Its diet consists of small invertebrates and small zooplankton. Reproduction is oviparous; the male guards the eggs, which are attached to the wall of a burrow or shelter. Because of its small size and hidden habits the species is rarely noticed. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the American shadow goby?
The American shadow goby has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Small goby that shelters in worm or shrimp burrows; males guard the eggs attached to the wall.
Where does the American shadow goby live?
The American shadow goby lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific, on silt flats of lagoons and river mouths; sometimes in worm or shrimp burrows.
How big does the American shadow goby get?
The American shadow goby grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the American shadow goby dangerous to humans?
No, the American shadow goby is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the American shadow goby edible?
The American shadow goby is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Quietula
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the American shadow goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the American shadow goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.