Fin's Fish Guide
The Harlequin prawn-goby (Cryptocentrus caeruleopunctatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The Harlequin prawn-goby is a shrimpgoby (Gobiidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 13 cm. It has a pale body with grey-brown crossbars and light-blue spots on head and fins. It lives in symbiosis with a burrowing pistol shrimp: the shrimp digs and maintains a shared burrow, while the goby keeps watch for danger. It eats small zooplankton and bottom life. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Harlequin prawn-goby?
The Harlequin prawn-goby has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly white.
Where does the Harlequin prawn-goby live?
The Harlequin prawn-goby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Saudi Arabia, Egypt
How big does the Harlequin prawn-goby get?
The Harlequin prawn-goby grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Harlequin prawn-goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Harlequin 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 Harlequin prawn-goby edible?
Yes, the Harlequin prawn-goby is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cryptocentrus
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Harlequin prawn-goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Harlequin prawn-goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.