Fin's Fish Guide
The Longtail goby (Ctenogobius sagittula) is a brackish-water fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
Ctenogobius sagittula, the longtail goby, is a goby of the family Gobiidae from coastal waters of the eastern Pacific. The species has an elongate, brownish body with a conspicuously long caudal fin and reaches about 20 cm. It inhabits shallow sand and mud bottoms of bays and estuaries and is an intertidal species that actively shuttles between rock pools. To feed it leaves its pool at low tide, takes a mouthful of mud and returns to wash it out and retain the edible particles. Owing to this peculiar feeding method the species is well adapted to the variable intertidal zone.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longtail goby?
The Longtail goby has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Long caudal fin; forages by taking mud into the mouth and rinsing it out.
Where does the Longtail goby live?
The Longtail goby lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Bays and estuaries of the eastern Pacific.
How big does the Longtail goby get?
The Longtail goby grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Longtail goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Longtail 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 Longtail goby edible?
The Longtail goby is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ctenogobius
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Longtail goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Longtail goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.