Fin's Fish Guide
The Goldspot goby (Gnatholepis thompsoni) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The goldspot goby (Gnatholepis thompsoni) is a small goby of the family Gobiidae from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species has a pale, translucent body with a small, golden spot at the pectoral-fin base and a dark bar through the eye, and grows to only a few centimetres. It inhabits open sand, rock and rubble areas near reefs, often together with the bridled goby. It is a bottom dweller that gathers food by taking sand into its mouth and expelling it through the gill openings, filtering out edible particles. Owing to its small size the species is not a food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Goldspot goby?
The Goldspot goby has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Golden blotch at the pectoral fin base; sifts sand through its mouth to filter out food.
Where does the Goldspot goby live?
The Goldspot goby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Sandy bottoms near reefs in the western Atlantic and the Caribbean.
How big does the Goldspot goby get?
The Goldspot goby grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Goldspot goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Goldspot 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 Goldspot goby edible?
The Goldspot goby is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gnatholepis
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Goldspot goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Goldspot goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.