Bay goby

The bay goby (Lepidogobius lepidus) is a small species of fish belonging to the goby family (Gobiidae). It is native to the Pacific coast of North America, ranging from British Columbia, Canada, to Baja California, Mexico.

Description:

Bay gobies are characterized by their small size, typically reaching a length of only a few inches (usually under 2.5 inches or 6 cm). They have an elongated body shape with a flattened head and a large mouth relative to their size. Their coloration varies depending on habitat and individual, but they are usually translucent or pale with brown, tan, or grey mottling and darker spots or bands. Males tend to be darker than females, especially during the breeding season. They lack scales on their head and have ctenoid scales on their body.

Habitat and Distribution:

As their name suggests, bay gobies inhabit shallow, brackish, and saltwater environments, primarily bays, estuaries, and sloughs. They are often found in areas with mud or sand bottoms and are tolerant of varying salinity levels. They are frequently associated with eelgrass beds and other submerged vegetation, which provide shelter and foraging opportunities.

Behavior and Diet:

Bay gobies are benthic fish, meaning they spend most of their time on or near the bottom. They are active predators, feeding on small invertebrates, including amphipods, copepods, polychaete worms, and other small crustaceans. They use a suction-feeding method to capture their prey.

Reproduction:

Bay gobies reproduce during the spring and summer months. Males establish and defend small territories under rocks, shells, or other objects. They attract females to their nests with courtship displays. Females lay eggs in the nest, which are then fertilized by the male. The male guards and fans the eggs until they hatch. The larvae are planktonic and drift in the water column before settling to the bottom as juveniles.

Conservation Status:

Bay gobies are generally considered to be a common and abundant species throughout their range. They are not currently listed as threatened or endangered. However, they may be vulnerable to habitat loss and degradation due to coastal development, pollution, and changes in water quality.