Elacatinus
Elacatinus is a genus of gobies, small, colorful fish found primarily in the Western Atlantic Ocean. They are commonly referred to as “dwarf gobies” due to their small size, often less than 2 inches in length. These fish are popular in the aquarium hobby due to their peaceful nature, vibrant colors, and relatively easy care requirements.
Characteristics
Members of the genus Elacatinus are characterized by their slender bodies, relatively large eyes, and a distinct, pointed snout. They often exhibit bright coloration, with stripes, spots, or a combination of both. Their fins are typically translucent and may have colorful markings. These fish are primarily diurnal, meaning they are active during the day. They often exhibit a fascinating cleaning behavior, picking parasites and dead skin off of larger fish.
Environment
Elacatinus species are primarily found in the Western Atlantic Ocean, with a range that extends from the United States to the Caribbean and Brazil. They are typically found in shallow, rocky reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove environments. They are often associated with specific types of corals, sponges, or other benthic organisms.
Species
There are currently over 40 recognized species within the genus Elacatinus. Some of the most common and popular species include:
- Elacatinus oceanops (Ocellaris Dwarf Goby)
- Elacatinus evelynae (Evelyne's Dwarf Goby)
- Elacatinus prochilos (Yellow Watchman Goby)
- Elacatinus figaro (Figaro Goby)
- Elacatinus colini (Colin's Dwarf Goby)
References
For more detailed information on the Elacatinus genus, you can refer to the following resources: