Fin's Fish Guide
The Island goby (Lythrypnus nesiotes) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 2 cm.
Description
The island goby is a very small goby (family Gobiidae) of the eastern Pacific. The species reaches only about 2 cm and has a stocky body that is usually reddish with pale bars. It inhabits coral and rocky areas of shallow reefs, where it shelters among coral and stones. Its diet consists of small zooplankton and small invertebrates. Because of its tiny size the species is harmless to humans and of no fishery value, though it is sometimes collected for the reef aquarium. Males guard the eggs attached to the bottom.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Island goby?
The Island goby has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Very small, colourful reef goby that hides among coral and stones.
Where does the Island goby live?
The Island goby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific, in coral and rocky areas of shallow reefs.
How big does the Island goby get?
The Island goby grows to a maximum of about 2 cm.
Is the Island goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Island goby is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Island goby edible?
The Island 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 Lythrypnus
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Island goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Island goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.