The Clown goby (Microgobius gulosus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Southeastern United States and Gulf of Mexico, in mangrove creeks with fine silt-mud bottoms.
Description
Microgobius gulosus is a small goby (family Gobiidae) of the south-eastern United States and the Gulf of Mexico. The species reaches about 7 cm and has an elongate, brown-grey body. It inhabits mangrove streams with very fine silt-mud substrate and tolerates a wide range of salinity, from fresh to full seawater. Its diet consists of small zooplankton and small invertebrates. Because of its small size the species is of no fishery value and is harmless to humans. Like many gobies it digs burrows in the soft bottom.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Clown goby?
The Clown goby has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Tolerates a large range of salinities (fresh to salt); lives on fine silty bottoms of mangrove creeks.
Where does the Clown goby live?
The Clown goby lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeastern United States and Gulf of Mexico, in mangrove creeks with fine silt-mud bottoms.
How big does the Clown goby get?
The Clown goby grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Clown goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Clown goby is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Clown goby edible?
The Clown goby is not usually eaten.
More photos

Want the complete picture on the Clown goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Clown goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Microgobius
More from the family Gobiidae

Want the complete picture on the Clown goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Clown goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.