The Candystick Goby – Vanderhorstia delagoae is a small, vibrant fish species known for its striking coloration. Belonging to the family Gobiidae, this goby is a fascinating inhabitant of various marine environments.
Description & Characteristics
The Candystick Goby – Vanderhorstia delagoae is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 7.5 cm. It exhibits a captivating color pattern, often described as a blend of bright orange and white. The body is typically elongated, and it possesses prominent eyes that contribute to its overall appeal.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Candystick Goby – Vanderhorstia delagoae is a species that thrives in a variety of marine habitats. Primarily found in lagoons and muddy grounds, this goby is a common sight within the Subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zones of the oceans. This includes the transition zone between the intertidal and the shelf edge, extending to a depth of approximately 200 meters. The Candystick Goby – Vanderhorstia delagoae is classified as a neritic species, indicating its presence in the waters above the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
The Candystick Goby – Vanderhorstia delagoae belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Gobiiformes, and Family: Gobiidae. The Gobiiformes order encompasses a diverse range of fishes, commonly referred to as gobies, and the Gobiidae family is characterized by their typically small size and specialized pelvic fins that resemble a suction cup.
Feeding
The Candystick Goby – Vanderhorstia delagoae is a carnivorous fish with a diet mainly consisting of crustaceans and zooplankton. Its feeding habits contribute to the balance and stability of the marine ecosystems it inhabits.
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