Fin's Fish Guide
The Painted goby (Pomatoschistus pictus) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Northeast Atlantic and the North Sea, on sandy and gravel bottoms of shallow to moderately deep coastal water.
Description
The painted goby is a small, dainty goby of the family Gobiidae reaching about 6 cm. The sandy-brown, translucent body bears four dark saddle blotches on the back, and the two dorsal fins are decorated with rows of colourful spots, from which the species takes its name; like other gobies the pelvic fins are fused into a sucking disc. Breeding males are more vividly coloured than females. The species lives on sand and gravel bottoms of shallow to moderate coastal water of the north-eastern Atlantic and the North Sea. On the bottom it searches for small crustaceans and worms. In spring the male guards the eggs laid under a shell or stone. Because of its small size it has no fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Painted goby?
The Painted goby has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Small, graceful goby with four dark saddle blotches on the back and rows of colourful spots on the dorsal fins; pelvic fins fused into a small sucker.
Where does the Painted goby live?
The Painted goby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Atlantic and the North Sea, on sandy and gravel bottoms of shallow to moderately deep coastal water.
How big does the Painted goby get?
The Painted goby grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Painted goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Painted goby is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Painted goby edible?
The Painted goby is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Painted 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 Pomatoschistus
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Painted goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Painted goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.