Fin's Fish Guide
The Highfin Goby (Gobionellus oceanicus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 27 cm.
Western Atlantic from North Carolina (USA) via the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean to Brazil, in estuaries and muddy coastal waters.
Description
The highfin goby (Gobionellus oceanicus) is a slender goby of the family Gobiidae found in estuaries and muddy coastal waters of the western Atlantic, from the USA through the Gulf of Mexico to Brazil. It reaches about 20-30 cm and has two separate dorsal fins, the first notably tall. Its brownish, faintly spotted body blends in with the bottom. The fish lives in self-dug burrows on mud flats and feeds on algae, detritus and small bottom invertebrates. Tolerant of variable salinity, it is not used for food.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Highfin Goby?
The Highfin Goby has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Slender goby with a high first dorsal fin and two separate dorsal fins; lives in self-dug burrows on muddy bottoms of estuaries.
Where does the Highfin Goby live?
The Highfin Goby lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic from North Carolina (USA) via the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean to Brazil, in estuaries and muddy coastal waters.
How big does the Highfin Goby get?
The Highfin Goby grows to a maximum of about 27 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Highfin Goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Highfin 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 Highfin Goby edible?
The Highfin Goby is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gobionellus
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Highfin Goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Highfin Goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.