Fin's Fish Guide
The Golden goby (Gobius auratus) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, on shady rocky bottoms and in crevices of shallow to moderately deep water.
Description
The golden goby is a colourful goby of the family Gobiidae reaching about 10 cm. The colour is variable, from bright yellow to orange-red, sometimes with a purplish tinge, making the species stand out on shaded rock faces. Like other gobies the pelvic fins are fused into a sucking disc, with which the fish clings to the rock. The species lives on shaded rocky bottoms and in crevices of the Mediterranean and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, from shallow to moderate depths, often on overhanging or dark walls. On the bottom it searches for small crustaceans and worms. The male defends a territory and guards the eggs laid in a crevice. Because of its small size it has no fishery importance, but it is a favourite subject for underwater photographers.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Golden goby?
The Golden goby has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Colourful goby that can be yellow to orange-red; lives on shaded rock walls, with the pelvic fins fused into a small sucker.
Where does the Golden goby live?
The Golden goby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, on shady rocky bottoms and in crevices of shallow to moderately deep water.
How big does the Golden goby get?
The Golden goby grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Golden goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Golden goby is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Golden goby edible?
The Golden goby is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Golden goby and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gobius
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Golden goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Golden goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.