The Adriatic dwarf goby (Knipowitschia panizzae) is a brackish-water fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The Adriatic dwarf goby is a small, translucent goby of the family Gobiidae reaching about 7 cm. The light-brown body bears a few dark spots; breeding males are brighter, with yellowish and dark markings. Like other gobies the pelvic fins are fused into a sucking disc. The species tolerates strongly varying salinity and lives mainly in brackish coastal lagoons, river deltas and estuaries of the Adriatic Sea and surroundings, in soft, vegetated water where few other fish thrive. Among the plants it searches for small zooplankton, insect larvae and small crustaceans. In spring and summer the male guards the eggs laid under a shell until they hatch. Because of its small size it has no fishery importance, but it is typical of the lagoon environment.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Adriatic dwarf goby?
The Adriatic dwarf goby has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Adriatic dwarf goby live?
The Adriatic dwarf goby lives in brackish water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds.
How big does the Adriatic dwarf goby get?
The Adriatic dwarf goby grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Adriatic dwarf goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Adriatic dwarf goby is harmless to humans.
Is the Adriatic dwarf goby edible?
The Adriatic dwarf goby is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Knipowitschia
More from the family Gobiidae
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