Fin's Fish Guide
The Goby (Istigobius ornatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The ornate goby is a small goby of the family Gobiidae from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 11 cm and has a pale, translucent body with an ornate pattern of fine spots and dashes. It is common in mangroves and silty, rocky coastal areas and is occasionally found in rubble reef zones. As a small bottom dweller it searches the soft bottom for small invertebrates. Gobies have fused pelvic fins forming a sucker with which they can cling to the substrate. Owing to its small size the species has no fishery value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Goby?
The Goby has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Translucent body with a delicate spotted pattern; pelvic fins fused into a sucker.
Where does the Goby live?
The Goby lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; mangroves and silty, rocky coastal areas.
How big does the Goby get?
The Goby grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Goby is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Goby edible?
The Goby is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Istigobius
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.