Fin's Fish Guide
The Scaly reef-goby (Priolepis squamogena) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Oceania: Easter I., Tahiti, Marquesas Is., French Polynesia, Kiribati, New Caledonia and others
Description
The Scaly reef-goby is a tiny coral goby (Gobiidae) from reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to only about 3 cm and has a stocky, often red-brown body with narrow pale crossbars and fused pelvic fins forming a sucker. As a cryptic dweller it often sits upside down in crevices, holes and under overhanging coral and snaps at minute zooplankton and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Scaly reef-goby?
The Scaly reef-goby has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Scaly reef-goby live?
The Scaly reef-goby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Easter I., Tahiti, Marquesas Is., French Polynesia, Kiribati, New Caledonia and others
How big does the Scaly reef-goby get?
The Scaly reef-goby grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Scaly reef-goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Scaly reef-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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Priolepis
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Scaly reef-goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Scaly reef-goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.