Fin's Fish Guide
The Convict reef-goby (Priolepis compita) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Oceania: Marquesas Is., French Polynesia, Indonesia, New Caledonia, Seychelles, South Africa and others
Description
The Convict reef-goby is a tiny coral goby (Gobiidae) from reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to only about 3 cm and has a stocky, often red-brown body with narrow pale crossbars and fused pelvic fins forming a sucker. As a cryptic dweller it often sits upside down in crevices, holes and under overhanging coral and snaps at minute zooplankton and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Convict reef-goby?
The Convict reef-goby has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Convict reef-goby live?
The Convict reef-goby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Marquesas Is., French Polynesia, Indonesia, New Caledonia, Seychelles, South Africa and others
How big does the Convict reef-goby get?
The Convict reef-goby grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Convict reef-goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Convict reef-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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Priolepis
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Convict reef-goby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Convict reef-goby is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone