Fin's Fish Guide
The Transparent goby (Aphia minuta) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Northeast Atlantic coast, the North Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, in shallow coastal and brackish water above soft bottoms.
Description
The transparent goby is a small, almost see-through goby of the family Gobiidae reaching about 8 cm. The glassy, colourless body lets the internal organs show through. Unlike most gobies, which live on the bottom, the transparent goby swims in schools in open water. The species occurs in shallow coastal and brackish water of the north-eastern Atlantic coast, the North Sea and the Mediterranean. It hunts small zooplankton, mainly crustacean larvae. The transparent goby is an annual species: it spawns in its first year of life and then dies. In parts of southern Europe it is caught in large quantities in season and eaten as a delicacy (for example 'chanquetes').
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Transparent goby?
The Transparent goby has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Almost transparent, glassy small goby that, unlike most gobies, does not live on the bottom but swims in shoals in open water; lives for only one year.
Where does the Transparent goby live?
The Transparent goby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Northeast Atlantic coast, the North Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, in shallow coastal and brackish water above soft bottoms.
How big does the Transparent goby get?
The Transparent goby grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Transparent goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Transparent goby is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Transparent goby edible?
Yes, the Transparent goby is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Transparent goby and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Gobiidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Transparent goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.