Fin's Fish Guide
The Leopard-spotted goby (Thorogobius ephippiatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, on shaded rocky bottoms and in crevices and caves from shallow to moderately deep water.
Description
The leopard-spotted goby is a strikingly spotted goby of the family Gobiidae reaching about 13 cm. The pale, yellow-brown body is covered with large, round, red-brown to purplish spots, making the fish recall a leopard; like other gobies the pelvic fins are fused into a sucking disc. The species is shy and lives on shaded rocky bottoms, in crevices and caves of the north-eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, often on overhanging or dark walls. When disturbed it darts quickly into a crevice. On the bottom it searches for small crustaceans and worms. The male defends a territory and guards the eggs laid in a crevice or cavity. Because of its beautiful markings it is a favourite subject for underwater photographers.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Leopard-spotted goby?
The Leopard-spotted goby has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Strikingly spotted goby with large, round, red-brown to purplish spots on a pale background, like a leopard; shy, shelters in rock crevices.
Where does the Leopard-spotted goby live?
The Leopard-spotted goby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, on shaded rocky bottoms and in crevices and caves from shallow to moderately deep water.
How big does the Leopard-spotted goby get?
The Leopard-spotted goby grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Leopard-spotted goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Leopard-spotted goby is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Leopard-spotted goby edible?
The Leopard-spotted goby is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Leopard-spotted goby and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Thorogobius
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Leopard-spotted goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Leopard-spotted goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.