Fin's Fish Guide
The Shortstripe goby (Elacatinus chancei) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The shortstripe goby is a very small goby from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a dark body with a light-blue to white longitudinal stripe that does not quite reach the snout. As a reef-dweller it often clings to sponges and coral and acts partly as a cleaner fish removing parasites from larger fish. It feeds on small crustaceans and parasites. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shortstripe goby?
The Shortstripe goby has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Pale blue longitudinal stripe; reef-dwelling cleaner goby
Where does the Shortstripe goby live?
The Shortstripe goby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic
How big does the Shortstripe goby get?
The Shortstripe goby grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Shortstripe goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Shortstripe 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 Shortstripe goby edible?
The Shortstripe goby is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Elacatinus
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Shortstripe goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shortstripe goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.