Fin's Fish Guide
The Island frillfin (Bathygobius mystacium) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Western Atlantic, from Florida and the Bahamas via the Antilles to Espírito Santo in Brazil; rocky intertidal zone.
Description
The island frillfin (Bathygobius mystacium) is a small goby of the western Atlantic, ranging from Florida and the Bahamas through the Antilles to Espírito Santo, Brazil. It grows to about 15 centimetres and inhabits rocky tide pools and the water's edge of mostly unsheltered shores. The elongate body is mottled brown with three dark dorsal saddles and a row of large, square blotches below the lateral line; the first dorsal fin usually bears one to three longitudinal stripes. Like all gobies it has two separate dorsal fins. It is a harmless bottom dweller.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Island frillfin?
The Island frillfin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Three dark saddle blotches on the back and a row of large block-shaped blotches below the lateral line; inhabits rocky tide pools on exposed coasts.
Where does the Island frillfin live?
The Island frillfin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic, from Florida and the Bahamas via the Antilles to Espírito Santo in Brazil; rocky intertidal zone.
How big does the Island frillfin get?
The Island frillfin grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Island frillfin dangerous to humans?
No, the Island frillfin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Island frillfin edible?
The Island frillfin is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Bathygobius
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Island frillfin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Island frillfin is one of 12,519 species in the app.