Common goby

D-Strandgrundel, Schlammgrundel; GB-Common goby; DK-Lerkutling; PL-Babka piaskowa; LT-Paplūdimių grundalas; LV-Jūrasgrundulis; EST-Pisimudil; RU-Обыкновенный бычок-бубырь; FIN-Liejutokko; S-Lerstubb

Characters

1) Pelvic fins are grown together to form a sucking disc.
2) Basis of both dorsal fins are clearly separated from each other.
3) Dark spot on end of first dorsal fin.
●) Back scaled not until behind of first dorsal fin.
●) Front edge of sucking disc smooth.
●) Body colouration sandy-brownish with unregular darker pattern; often with dark spot on origin of pectoral fin.
Usually 4 to 5 cm, maximal up to 7 cm length.

Similar species

Sand goby - back in front of first dorsal fin scaled; front edge of pelvic fins (sucking disc) serrated.

Painted goby - distinct double row of black spots on dorsal fin.

Two-spotted goby - dark, yellow bordered spot on caudal peduncle.

Biology

Occurs mainly in shallow waters near the coast, down to 12 m depth, on sandy and moudy grounds. Spawns in summer under mussel shells; males defend the clutch.

Diet

Feeds on small invertebrates as amphipods and worms.

Importance

Due to their abundance an important prey for bigger, commercially important fish species like eel and cod.

Remarks

Gobiids resemble each other much; this holds especially true for poorly coloured specimens and juveniles. Often even specialist have much difficulties to clearly identify the species.