Fin's Fish Guide
The Flagfin prawn goby (Mahidolia mystacina) is a brackish-water fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Asia: Australia, Cambodia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, French Polynesia, Guam, Hong Kong and others
Description
The flagfin prawn goby is a shrimpgoby (Gobiidae) from coastal and brackish water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a pale to grey-brown body with a high, flag-like first dorsal fin and a large mouth that gives it a smiling appearance. It lives in symbiosis with a burrowing pistol shrimp, which maintains a shared burrow while the goby keeps watch. It eats small zooplankton and bottom life. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flagfin prawn goby?
The Flagfin prawn goby has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Flagfin prawn goby live?
The Flagfin prawn goby lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, Cambodia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, French Polynesia, Guam, Hong Kong and others
How big does the Flagfin prawn goby get?
The Flagfin prawn goby grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Flagfin prawn goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Flagfin prawn 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 Flagfin prawn goby edible?
Yes, the Flagfin prawn goby is commonly eaten.
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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 Flagfin prawn goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flagfin prawn goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.