Sand goby

The sand goby (Pomatoschistus minutus) is a small, common species of goby found in shallow coastal waters of Europe, from the Mediterranean Sea to the Baltic Sea and as far north as Iceland and Norway. It is also present in parts of the North Atlantic.

These fish are typically found in sandy or muddy substrates, often in areas with eelgrass or other vegetation. They are characterized by their elongated body shape, reaching a maximum length of approximately 9-11 centimeters. Sand gobies are typically pale sandy brown or grey in color, often with darker spots or bands along their sides which help them camouflage against the seabed.

Sand gobies are opportunistic feeders, consuming a variety of small invertebrates including crustaceans, worms, and mollusks. They are an important prey species for larger fish, birds, and marine mammals.

Spawning occurs in the spring and summer. The male sand goby excavates a shallow burrow in the sand and attracts females to lay their eggs inside. The male then guards the eggs until they hatch.

Sand gobies are relatively short-lived, typically living for only one to two years. Their abundance and widespread distribution make them an ecologically significant component of coastal ecosystems. They are generally tolerant of a range of salinity levels, allowing them to inhabit both marine and brackish environments.