Fin's Fish Guide
The Barbel goby (Barbuligobius boehlkei) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 2 cm.
Asia: Australia, Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Indonesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is. and others
Description
The barbel goby is a small goby (Gobiidae) from shallow sand and reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a slender, pale, sandy body with fine barbel-like projections on the chin and fused pelvic fins forming a sucker. As a bottom-dweller it perches on sand bottoms near the reef and snaps at small crustaceans and worms. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barbel goby?
The Barbel goby has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Barbel goby live?
The Barbel goby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Indonesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is. and others
How big does the Barbel goby get?
The Barbel goby grows to a maximum of about 2 cm.
Is the Barbel goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Barbel goby is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Barbel goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barbel goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.