Size1.6 inches (4.1 cm)
DietParasites off of other fish
RangeWestern Atlantic Ocean
HabitatClear, insular coral reefs
- Individuals typically measure around 1.6 inches (4.1 cm) in length.
- The mouth is terminal: near the tip of its pointed snout.
- Pelvic fins join to form a cup-like suction disk.
- Coloration is dark, with a yellow stripe in front of each eye joining at its snout to form a “V.” A dark line extends from its snout past its gill opening to the caudal, or tail, fin.
The pelvic fins of sharknose goby join to form a cup-like suction disk.
- A cleaner fish that eats parasites off of other fish.
- Larva feeds on small plankton.
- Occurs in the Western Atlantic from the Bahamas, and Lesser Antilles to South America’s northern coast.
- Found on clear, insular coral reefs at depths up to 174 feet (53 m).
- May appear singly or in groups of up to six individuals on a single coral.
- It is possible for this species to hybridize with Elacatinus figaro, the barber goby.
- A monogamous species often appearing in pairs.
- “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List.