Round goby

D-Schwarzmundgrundel; GB-Round goby; DK-Sortmundet kutling; PL-Babka śniadogłowa; LT-Apvalusis grundalas; LV-Apaļais jūrasgrundulis; EST-Ümarmudil; RU-Бычок-кругляк; FIN-Mustatäplätokko; S-Svartmunnad smörbult

Characters

1) Pelvic fins are grown together to form a sucking disc.
2) Basis of both dorsal fins are touching each other.
3) Hind lower part of first dorsal fin dark.
●) Eyes standing near together.
●) Body colouration greyish to brownish, marmorated with dark spots; breeding males are coloured dark black.
Usually up to 15 cm, maximal up to 25 cm length.

Similar species

Black goby - dark spot in front upper part of first dorsal fin; males have an elongated first dorsal fin; neck is entirely scaled.

Biology

Prefers shallow brackish waters, but also survives in fresh water. Spawns in summer months on hard substrates as stones and seashell; males defend the clutch.

Diet

Feeds on bottom-living invertebrates and fish.

Importance

Economic use underdeveloped.

Endangerment

Exotic species with possible negative impact on the ecosystem.

Remarks

The Round goby was found for the first time in the Baltic Sea in the 1990's. Since than the species strongly spreads out.