The Round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Description
The round goby is a sturdy bottom goby of the family Gobiidae reaching about 25 cm but usually smaller. The stout, brownish spotted body has as a hallmark a conspicuous black spot at the rear of the first dorsal fin; like other gobies the pelvic fins are fused into a sucking disc. The species is native to fresh and brackish water of the Black and Caspian seas but is among the most successful invasive fish in the world: through ballast water and canals it has colonised the North American Great Lakes, the Baltic and western European rivers such as the Rhine and Meuse. It eats mainly shellfish, small crustaceans, worms and fish fry. The male fiercely guards the eggs. Through its aggression and numbers it displaces native bottom fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Round goby?
The Round goby has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Round goby live?
The Round goby lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Round goby get?
The Round goby grows to a maximum of about 35 cm.
Is the Round goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Round goby is harmless to humans.
Is the Round goby edible?
The Round goby is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Neogobius
More from the family Gobiidae
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