Fin's Fish Guide
The Hovering goby (Bryaninops natans) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Asia: Australia, Solomon Is., Brunei Darsm, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Cook Is., Guam and others
Description
The Hovering goby is a tiny goby (Gobiidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 2.5 cm and has a slender, partly translucent body. Unlike most gobies it hovers in small groups just above branching Acropora corals. It eats small zooplankton that drifts past. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hovering goby?
The Hovering goby has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Hovering goby live?
The Hovering goby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, Solomon Is., Brunei Darsm, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Cook Is., Guam and others
How big does the Hovering goby get?
The Hovering goby grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Hovering goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Hovering 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 Hovering goby edible?
Yes, the Hovering goby is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Hovering goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hovering goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Bryaninops
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Hovering goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hovering goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.