Valenciennea
Valenciennea is a genus of gobies, small, bottom-dwelling fish belonging to the family Gobiidae. Commonly referred to as “sand gobies,” these fish are found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting a variety of environments, including coral reefs, rocky shores, and sandy bottoms. They are generally small in size, with most species reaching a maximum length of around 10 centimeters. Valenciennea gobies are known for their distinctive body shapes, with elongated, compressed bodies and large heads. Their coloration can vary greatly depending on the species, but they often feature vibrant patterns and hues.
Common Names
Valenciennea gobies are commonly known as "sand gobies" due to their frequent habitat preference. Some species have specific common names, such as the "yellow watchman goby" (Valenciennea puellaris) and the "barred sand goby" (Valenciennea strigata).
Characteristics
Valenciennea gobies possess several notable characteristics:
- Elongated, compressed body: Their bodies are elongated and laterally compressed, giving them a streamlined appearance.
- Large head: Their heads are relatively large in proportion to their bodies, with prominent eyes and a wide mouth.
- Fused pelvic fins: Like most gobies, Valenciennea species have fused pelvic fins that form a suction cup-like structure, allowing them to cling to surfaces.
- Varied coloration: Depending on the species, they exhibit diverse coloration patterns, often featuring stripes, spots, or blotches.
Environments
Valenciennea gobies are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Coral reefs: They inhabit both shallow and deep reef systems, often hiding amongst corals or crevices.
- Rocky shores: Some species prefer rocky shores, where they can find shelter and forage for food.
- Sandy bottoms: Many Valenciennea gobies are found on sandy bottoms, where they burrow and forage for food.
References
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