Fin's Fish Guide
The Javelin goby (Acanthogobius hasta) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The javelin goby is a fairly large goby from the northwest Pacific, occurring in Japan, Korea and China. It can reach 50 cm, although adults are usually 30 to 40 cm. The elongate body carries two separate dorsal fins, typical of gobies. The fish lives on sand and mud bottoms in bays and estuaries and tolerates salt, brackish and fresh water. It feeds on shrimp, fish and crabs. The species grows fast, lives only about one year, and a female carries some 60,000 eggs. It is a commercially valued food fish; the IUCN assesses it as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Javelin goby?
The Javelin goby has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Fast-growing; lives about a year; the female carries up to 60,000 eggs
Where does the Javelin goby live?
The Javelin goby lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northwest Pacific
How big does the Javelin goby get?
The Javelin goby grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Javelin goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Javelin 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 Javelin goby edible?
Yes, the Javelin goby is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Javelin goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Javelin 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 Acanthogobius
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Javelin goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Javelin goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.