The Chameleon goby (Tridentiger trigonocephalus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The chameleon goby is a stocky estuarine goby of the family Gobiidae reaching about 11 cm. It owes its name to its ability to switch colour pattern quickly: depending on mood and surroundings it shows two dark lengthwise stripes or instead dark cross-bars. Like other gobies the pelvic fins are fused into a sucking disc. The species is native to East Asia and lives in brackish and salt coastal and estuarine water on stone and rock bottoms and among fouling growth. Through ballast water and shipping it has spread to harbours in North America, Australia and the Mediterranean and Black Sea, where it becomes locally established. On the bottom it hunts small crustaceans, worms and molluscs.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chameleon goby?
The Chameleon goby has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Chameleon goby live?
The Chameleon goby lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Chameleon goby get?
The Chameleon goby grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Chameleon goby dangerous to humans?
No, the Chameleon goby is harmless to humans.
Is the Chameleon goby edible?
The Chameleon goby is not usually eaten.
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Tridentiger
More from the family Gobiidae
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.