The Dwarfgoby – Eviota masudai is a small, colorful species of fish belonging to the Goby family (Gobiidae). They are known for their striking appearance and intriguing behavior, making them a popular subject of study among marine biologists and aquarists alike.
Description & Characteristics
The Dwarfgoby – Eviota masudai is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 3.2 cm. They are characterized by their vibrant color patterns, often displaying bright orange, yellow, and black markings. These colors serve as camouflage and help them blend into their surroundings, making them difficult for predators to spot. Their bodies are slender and elongated, with large eyes and a slightly flattened head. They possess a distinct caudal fin, which is often rounded or slightly forked.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Dwarfgoby – Eviota masudai is a demersal species, meaning it lives close to the bottom of the ocean floor. They are found in a wide range of marine habitats, including coral reefs, rocky shores, and sandy bottoms. They can be observed at depths ranging from 2.0 to 64.0 meters, making them a common sight in both shallow and deeper waters. The Dwarfgoby – Eviota masudai typically inhabits the tropical and subtropical regions of the Indo-Pacific Ocean, making it a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems.
Taxonomy
The species Eviota masudai belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Gobiiformes, and Family: Gobiidae. This classification places them within a diverse group of fish known for their specialized adaptations, including their pelvic fins, which have evolved into a suction cup-like structure that allows them to cling to surfaces.
Feeding
The Dwarfgoby – Eviota masudai is a carnivorous fish, with a diet consisting primarily of small invertebrates. Their feeding habits include consuming brine shrimp nauplii, brine shrimps, and zooplankton, which they capture using their small mouths and quick reflexes. Their feeding behavior is often observed in close proximity to the bottom, where they scour for food amongst the sediments and crevices.
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