Ctenogobius

Common Names

Common names for species within the genus Ctenogobius vary depending on the specific species and region. For example, Ctenogobius stigmaticus, often referred to as the "banded goby," is known as the "striped goby" in other areas.

Characteristics

Ctenogobius species generally share these key characteristics:

• Elongated Body: Their bodies are slender and elongated, allowing for maneuverability in their habitats.
• Small Mouth: Their mouths are relatively small and positioned at the tip of their snouts.
• Lack of Scales on Head: Their heads are typically scaleless, a characteristic common in some goby species.
• Dorsal Fins: They have two dorsal fins, the first usually with a few spines.
• Pelvic Fins: Their pelvic fins are fused to form a suction disc, which helps them adhere to surfaces.
• Coloration: Species within the genus vary widely in color, ranging from drab browns to vibrant yellows and oranges, sometimes with stripes or spots.

Environments

Ctenogobius species are found in a variety of marine environments, often inhabiting shallow, inshore areas with sandy or muddy bottoms. They are commonly found in:

• Estuaries: These transition zones between freshwater rivers and saltwater seas provide a diverse range of habitats for Ctenogobius species.
• Mangroves: The roots and tangled vegetation of mangrove forests provide shelter and food sources for these gobies.
• Coral Reefs: Some Ctenogobius species are found in the coral reef ecosystems, particularly in areas with abundant crevices and hiding places.

References

For more detailed information on Ctenogobius, consult the following reliable online resources:

• FishBase
• WoRMS