Fin's Fish Guide
The River goby (Glossogobius callidus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The river goby is a goby (Gobiidae) from southern Africa. The species has an elongate, mottled brown body with a flattened head and, as is typical of gobies, pelvic fins fused into a sucker. It inhabits estuaries and river systems, where it lives bottom-bound in pools among cobbles and other cover. As an ambush hunter it takes small fishes, crustaceans and insect larvae. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the River goby?
The River goby has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Pelvic fins fused into a sucker; bottom ambush predator of estuaries and rivers.
Where does the River goby live?
The River goby lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southern Africa; estuaries and river systems.
How big does the River goby get?
The River goby grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the River goby dangerous to humans?
No, the River goby is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the River goby edible?
The River goby is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Glossogobius
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the River goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the River goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.