Fin's Fish Guide
The Brown goby (Awaous lateristriga) is a brackish-water fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
Awaous lateristriga, the West African freshwater goby, is a goby of the family Gobiidae from coastal rivers of West Africa. The species has an elongate, brownish body with a lateral stripe along the flank and reaches about 14 cm. It is amphidromous: the fish live and grow up in fresh water, but the larvae are washed to sea and return later. It occurs mainly in the lower courses of rivers, from fresh to brackish water. As a bottom dweller it takes mouthfuls of sand to sift out small invertebrates, algae and detritus. Owing to its small size the species has limited fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brown goby?
The Brown goby has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Amphidromous life cycle; sifts sand through its mouth to filter out food.
Where does the Brown goby live?
The Brown goby lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Lower reaches of coastal rivers of West Africa.
How big does the Brown goby get?
The Brown goby grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Brown goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Brown 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 Brown goby edible?
The Brown goby is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Awaous
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Brown goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brown goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.