The Harlot Pygmy Goby – Trimma fucatum is a small, colorful fish that is a popular choice for saltwater aquariums.
Description & Characteristics
The Harlot Pygmy Goby, Trimma fucatum, is a small fish, reaching a maximum size of only 2.0 cm. Its body is elongated and slender, with a distinctive pointed snout. The most striking feature of this species is its vibrant coloration. Males are typically a bright orange-red, while females are a more subdued yellow-orange. Both sexes have a distinctive dark stripe that runs along the length of their bodies, starting at the snout and continuing to the tail.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Harlot Pygmy Goby, Trimma fucatum, is found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, typically inhabiting shallow reef environments. Its depth range is typically between 0.0 and 23.0 meters, making it a common sight in the intertidal zone and in coral reefs. This species is often observed in association with sea anemones, providing them with a safe haven from predators.
Taxonomy
The Harlot Pygmy Goby, Trimma fucatum, belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Gobiiformes, and Family: Gobiidae. This family encompasses a diverse range of fishes, with over 2,000 species known. The gobies are characterized by their small size, often with a fused pelvic fin forming a suction cup.
Feeding
The Harlot Pygmy Goby, Trimma fucatum, is a carnivorous fish that primarily feeds on small invertebrates. Its diet consists mainly of amphipods, copepods, decapods, and zooplankton. These tiny creatures are captured using the goby’s quick and agile movements.
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