Bryaninops
Bryaninops is a genus of gobies, small, bottom-dwelling fish in the family Gobiidae. They are commonly known as dwarf gobies or pygmy gobies. The genus comprises 18 species, most of which are found in the Indo-Pacific region. Bryaninops gobies are distinguished by their small size, with most species reaching a maximum length of 2-3 centimeters. They are generally cryptic, inhabiting coral reefs, rocky shores, and seagrass beds.
Common Names
Bryaninops gobies are commonly known as dwarf gobies or pygmy gobies. Some species have specific common names, such as the dwarf goby (Bryaninops affinis), the pygmy goby (Bryaninops albomaculatus), and the red-spotted goby (Bryaninops erythrostigma).
Characteristics
Bryaninops gobies share several distinctive characteristics:
- Small size: They are among the smallest gobies, typically reaching only 2-3 centimeters in length.
- Elongated body: Their bodies are slender and elongated, often with a slightly compressed profile.
- Large eyes: Their eyes are relatively large, giving them excellent vision.
- Fused pelvic fins: The pelvic fins are fused to form a suction disc, which helps them to cling to surfaces.
- Coloration: Most Bryaninops species are cryptically colored, blending in with their surroundings. They often have a combination of browns, tans, and grays, sometimes with spots or stripes.
Environments
Bryaninops gobies are typically found in shallow, coastal waters. They are often associated with coral reefs, rocky shores, and seagrass beds. Some species may also inhabit estuaries or brackish water environments. Their small size and cryptic coloration allow them to hide among the complex structures of these habitats, avoiding predation.
References
For further information, please refer to the following resources: