Gobius

Gobius is a genus of gobies native to brackish and marine waters of the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Black Sea basins. They are small fish, typically under 15 cm (6 inches) in length, characterized by their elongated bodies, fused pelvic fins forming a suction cup-like disc used for adhering to surfaces, and prominent eyes.

Gobius species are typically found in shallow coastal habitats, including rocky shores, sandy bottoms, estuaries, and seagrass beds. They are benthic fish, meaning they spend most of their time on or near the bottom. Their diet consists primarily of small invertebrates, such as crustaceans, mollusks, and worms.

Many species within the Gobius genus are important components of their respective ecosystems, serving as prey for larger fish and birds. Some species are also of minor commercial importance as bait fish.

The classification of species within the Gobius genus has been subject to revision over time, and some species previously classified within Gobius have been reassigned to other genera. Distinguishing between different Gobius species can be challenging, often requiring detailed examination of morphological characteristics such as fin ray counts and scale patterns.

Gobius gobies play a vital role in their habitats and are often used as indicator species for environmental monitoring.