Fin's Fish Guide
The Japanese rock-climbing goby (Sicyopterus japonicus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The Japanese rock-climbing goby is an amphidromous goby of the family Gobiidae from East Asia. The species grows to about 13 cm and has an elongate body with an inferior, sucker-like mouth and a belly sucker from the fused pelvic fins. It lives in fast-flowing streams: after hatching the larvae wash to sea and the juveniles later run back up the rivers, where with both suckers they can 'climb' up waterfalls and rapids against the current. With its rasping mouth it scrapes adhesive algae (aufwuchs) from the stones. The species is a local delicacy and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese rock-climbing goby?
The Japanese rock-climbing goby has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Amphidromous; climbs waterfalls against the current with ventral and mouth suckers and scrapes algae from stones.
Where does the Japanese rock-climbing goby live?
The Japanese rock-climbing goby lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. East Asia; fast-flowing streams, amphidromous between sea and rivers.
How big does the Japanese rock-climbing goby get?
The Japanese rock-climbing goby grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Japanese rock-climbing goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Japanese rock-climbing goby is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Japanese rock-climbing goby edible?
Yes, the Japanese rock-climbing goby is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Japanese rock-climbing goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese rock-climbing 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 Sicyopterus
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Japanese rock-climbing goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese rock-climbing goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.