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Glossogobius concinnus, commonly known as the Black-spot Goby, is a species of freshwater goby belonging to the family Gobiidae. It is characterized by its elongated body, distinctive black spots along the lateral line, and a generally cryptic coloration that aids in camouflage within its benthic habitats. This species is a small, bottom-dwelling fish, typically found in clear, flowing waters.
Physical Characteristics
- Body shape
- elongated
- Coloration
- The body is generally light brown to grayish, often mottled with darker irregular blotches that provide camouflage. A series of distinct, often vertically elongated, black spots or blotches are present along the lateral line, which is a key identifying feature. The fins are typically translucent with some darker markings or banding.
- Scale type
- ctenoid
- Mouth position
- terminal
- Distinctive features
- Series of prominent black spots along the lateral line., Depressed head with a relatively large mouth., Two distinct dorsal fins.
- Dorsal fin
- Two dorsal fins; the first dorsal fin has 6-7 spines, and the second dorsal fin has 1 spine and 8-9 soft rays. The first dorsal fin is typically lower than the second.
- Tail fin
- Rounded to slightly emarginate caudal fin.
- Pectoral fin
- Pectoral fins are relatively large and rounded, with 17-19 rays.
- Distinctive fins
- Pelvic fins are fused to form a disc-like sucker, characteristic of gobies, used for adhesion to substrates.
Identification Tips
Lateral Line Spots
Look for the characteristic series of 5-7 distinct, often vertically elongated, black spots or blotches running along the lateral line from behind the pectoral fin to the caudal peduncle. These spots are usually more prominent than any other body markings.
Head Shape
Observe the head, which is typically depressed (flattened) and relatively broad, with a large mouth extending to below the anterior margin of the eye.
Dorsal Fins
Note the two separate dorsal fins. The first dorsal fin is generally lower and shorter than the second.
Pelvic Fins
Confirm the presence of fused pelvic fins forming a disc-like sucker on the ventral side, a definitive goby characteristic.
Habitat
- Water type
- freshwater
- Depth
- Typically found in shallow waters, often less than 2 meters.
- Environment
- Inhabits clear, flowing freshwater streams, rivers, and sometimes lakes. Prefers areas with sandy or gravelly bottoms, often with submerged vegetation, rocks, or leaf litter for cover. It is a benthic species, spending most of its time on the substrate.
- Geographic range
- Widespread in Southeast Asia, including countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia (Sumatra, Borneo, Java), and the Philippines. Its distribution extends to parts of mainland Asia.
Aquarium Information
- Care level: intermediate
- Temperament: peaceful
- Diet: carnivore
- Minimum tank size: 20 gallons
- Temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
- pH level: 6.5-7.5
- Hardness: 5-15 dGH
- Compatibility: Compatible with other peaceful, similarly sized freshwater fish. Avoid highly aggressive or very large tank mates.
- Special requirements: Requires a well-filtered aquarium with a sandy or fine gravel substrate, plenty of hiding spots (rocks, driftwood, plants), and moderate water flow. Good water quality is crucial.
Wild Information
- Conservation status: least concern
- Seasonality: Breeding typically occurs during the wet season, but specific seasonal patterns for general activity are not well-documented beyond year-round presence in suitable habitats.
- Market price: N/A
- Commercial importance: low
- Taste: N/A
- Texture: N/A
- Nutritional value: N/A
Key Facts
Benthic Lifestylebehavior
The Black-spot Goby is a classic benthic fish, spending most of its life on the bottom substrate, using its fused pelvic fins to cling to rocks and other surfaces in flowing water.
Camouflage Masterinteresting
Its mottled coloration and distinct black spots provide excellent camouflage against the varied textures of riverbeds, allowing it to ambush prey and evade predators effectively.
Dietary Opportunistbehavior
As a carnivorous species, it primarily feeds on small invertebrates, insect larvae, and other benthic organisms, showcasing its adaptability to available food sources in its habitat.
Safety Information
Safe- Safety level: safe
- Venomous: No
- Edibility: not recommended
- Handling notes: No specific handling precautions are required beyond standard fish handling practices to minimize stress to the fish. They are not venomous and do not possess sharp spines that pose a significant threat.
Similar Species
Flathead Goby
Glossogobius giuris
G. giuris typically has less distinct or more irregularly shaped spots along the lateral line, often appearing as blotches rather than well-defined spots. Its head is generally more depressed, and it can grow to a larger size. The number and arrangement of lateral line spots are the primary distinguishing features.
Tank Goby
Glossogobius aureus
G. aureus often exhibits a more uniform coloration without the prominent black lateral spots of G. concinnus. While it may have some blotches, they are not as distinct or regularly arranged as the 'black-spots' of G. concinnus. Morphometric differences in head length and body depth also exist but require closer examination.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Gobiiformes
- Family
- Gobiidae
- Genus
- Glossogobius
- Species
- concinnus
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