Fin's Fish Guide
The Masked goby (Coryphopterus personatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The masked goby is a tiny goby of the family Gobiidae from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to only about 4 cm and has a translucent, orangish body with a dark mask over the eyes, to which the name refers. It lives in schools that hover near large coral columns and heads. As a small plankton feeder it picks small zooplankton from the water. The species can be reared in captivity. Owing to a decline of coral reefs it is listed as Vulnerable (VU). Owing to its small size it is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Masked goby?
The Masked goby has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Translucent with a dark eye mask; hovers in shoals near coral heads, vulnerable (VU).
Where does the Masked goby live?
The Masked goby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean; hovering near large coral pillars.
How big does the Masked goby get?
The Masked goby grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Masked goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Masked goby is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Masked goby edible?
The Masked goby is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Masked goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Masked 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 Coryphopterus
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Masked goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Masked goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.