Gobiesox
Gobiesox is a genus of clingfishes, which are small, benthic fish found in shallow marine and brackish waters worldwide. They are characterized by their flattened bodies, large adhesive discs on their ventral surfaces, and often, colorful patterns.
Common Names
Gobiesox species are commonly referred to as "clingfishes," "clinging gobies," or "suckerfish," reflecting their ability to cling to rocks and other surfaces using their specialized adhesive discs.
Characteristics
Gobiesox species exhibit a number of shared characteristics, including:
- Flattened bodies: They have a compressed body shape that allows them to squeeze into crevices and under rocks.
- Adhesive disc: A large, modified pelvic fin forms a strong adhesive disc on their ventral surface, enabling them to cling tightly to various substrates.
- Small size: Most Gobiesox species are relatively small, typically less than 10 centimeters in length.
- Colorful patterns: Some species exhibit vibrant colors and patterns, often serving as camouflage or for species recognition.
Environment
Gobiesox clingfishes are primarily found in coastal waters, typically inhabiting rocky shores, tide pools, and coral reefs. They are highly adapted to living in intertidal zones, where they can withstand the fluctuations in water levels and salinity.
References
For more information on Gobiesox, consult the following reliable sources: