Common Goby

Fact File: Common Name(s): Common Goby Scientific Name: Pomatoschistus microps Usual Size: 64 mm UK Record Weights from rod/line: Shore: Boat: MAFF Minimum Size: Shore: Boat:

Identification: Small goby (a family of small fishes with a notorious reputation of being difficult to differentiate, characterised by a pair of dorsal fins, and a pelvic fin fused into a weak suction cup). Sandy colour, but not so long as the similar species Pomatoschistus minutus. In breeding coloration the male fish has a dark blotch at the rear of the first dorsal fin. Only experienced rockpoolers are likely to be able to separate these species in the wild. Breeding: Spring. May lay eggs up to five times under a shell. Male guards the eggs. Life span 12 - 15 months only. Habitat: Sandy shallows, intertidal with shallow sandy pools, estuaries in summer. Food: Small crustaceans like caprellids, worms. Range: All British coasts.Abundant. Additional Notes: http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/BMLSS/Gobies1.htm

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