Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotfin goby (Oxyurichthys stigmalophius) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 17 cm.
North America: Antigua Barbuda, Bahamas, Belize, Cayman Is., Cuba, Guyana and others
Description
The Spotfin goby is a goby (Gobiidae) from shallow sand and mud water of the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender, sandy body with fine spots, sometimes a skin crest on the nape and fused pelvic fins forming a sucker. As a bottom-dweller it sifts mouthfuls of sand in search of small invertebrates, algae and detritus; it often lives by a burrow. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotfin goby?
The Spotfin goby has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Spotfin goby live?
The Spotfin goby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Antigua Barbuda, Bahamas, Belize, Cayman Is., Cuba, Guyana and others
How big does the Spotfin goby get?
The Spotfin goby grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Spotfin goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotfin 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 Spotfin goby edible?
Yes, the Spotfin goby is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Oxyurichthys
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotfin goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotfin goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.