The Racer goby (Babka gymnotrachelus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The racer goby is a small goby of the family Gobiidae reaching about 16 cm and native to the Ponto-Caspian region. The brownish body bears a row of dark, oblique cross-bars; characteristic is the scaleless, 'naked' nape (hence the name). Like other gobies the pelvic fins are fused into a sucking disc, with which the fish clings to the bottom. The species lives on vegetated and stony bottoms of fresh and brackish water in the Black and Caspian Sea drainages. On the bottom it hunts insect larvae, small crustaceans and molluscs. Through connected rivers and canals it is spreading northward across central Europe. In spring the male guards the eggs laid under a stone.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Racer goby?
The Racer goby has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Racer goby live?
The Racer goby lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Racer goby get?
The Racer goby grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Racer goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Racer goby is harmless to humans.
Is the Racer goby edible?
The Racer goby is not usually eaten.
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More from the family Gobiidae
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