Fin's Fish Guide
The Arno goby (Padogobius nigricans) is a freshwater fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Endemic to the fresh water of central Italy, in the basins of the Arno, the Tiber and adjacent rivers, on stony and gravel bottoms of flowing water.
Description
The Arno goby is a freshwater goby of the family Gobiidae reaching about 12 cm. The brown-mottled body blends well against a stony bottom; like other gobies the pelvic fins are fused into a sucking disc. Breeding males turn almost black with bluish spots and are then strikingly dark. The species is endemic to the fresh water of central Italy, in the Arno, Tiber and adjacent drainages, on stony and gravel bottoms of flowing water. On the bottom it searches for insect larvae, small crustaceans and worms. The male defends a cavity under a stone and guards the clutch. Through water pollution, habitat loss and competition with introduced exotics (especially the related Padano goby) it has declined sharply and is assessed as Endangered (EN).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Arno goby?
The Arno goby has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Freshwater goby with a brown marbled body; males in spawning condition turn almost black with bluish blotches and are then strikingly dark.
Where does the Arno goby live?
The Arno goby lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Endemic to the fresh water of central Italy, in the basins of the Arno, the Tiber and adjacent rivers, on stony and gravel bottoms of flowing water.
How big does the Arno goby get?
The Arno goby grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Arno goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Arno goby is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Arno goby edible?
The Arno 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 Padogobius
More from the family Gobiidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Arno goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.