Ventral-barred shrimpgoby – Cryptocentrus sericus

The Ventral-barred Shrimpgoby, scientifically known as Cryptocentrus sericus, is a species of goby fish belonging to the family Gobiidae. This intriguing species is characterized by its distinctive ventral bars and has captured the attention of marine biologists and enthusiasts alike.

Description & Characteristics

Cryptocentrus sericus, commonly known as the Ventral-barred Shrimpgoby, is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 10.0 cm. Its most prominent feature is the presence of distinct vertical bars that run along its ventral side, giving it its common name. This coloration pattern serves as camouflage, helping the fish blend into its surroundings and evade predators. The Ventral-barred Shrimpgoby typically exhibits a brown or grayish color, providing further camouflage in its natural habitat.

Habitat and Occurrence

The Ventral-barred Shrimpgoby, Cryptocentrus sericus, is primarily found in shallow coastal waters, with a depth range of 1.0 – 10.0 meters. These gobies prefer environments that offer a mix of sand and rubble, making them a common sight in the intertidal zones and shallow reefs. Their presence is particularly noticeable in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, where they thrive in the warm, clear waters. This distribution highlights the importance of these marine zones for the survival of Cryptocentrus sericus.

Taxonomy

The species Cryptocentrus sericus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Gobiiformes, and Family: Gobiidae. This classification places it among the diverse group of goby fish, which are characterized by their small size and bottom-dwelling habits. The Gobiidae family boasts a wide range of species, with over 2,000 known members distributed across various marine habitats worldwide.

Feeding

Cryptocentrus sericus, the Ventral-barred Shrimpgoby, is a carnivore. Its diet primarily consists of small invertebrates, which it finds amongst the sand and rubble of its habitat. This opportunistic feeding strategy allows the species to thrive in a variety of environments, contributing to its success within its ecological niche.