Fin's Fish Guide
The Barber goby (Elacatinus figaro) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Description
The Barber goby is a small cleaner goby (Gobiidae) from coastal waters of Brazil. The species grows to about 3 cm and has a slender body with a yellow longitudinal stripe over a dark flank. It keeps cleaning stations on the reef, where larger fish come to have parasites and dead skin removed, which it picks off. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barber goby?
The Barber goby has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Barber goby live?
The Barber goby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. South America: Brazil
How big does the Barber goby get?
The Barber goby grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Barber goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Barber 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.
Is the Barber goby edible?
Yes, the Barber goby is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Elacatinus
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Barber goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barber goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.