How to Identify Redfin bully

To identify Redfin bully (Gobiomorphus huttoni), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Body coloration is highly variable, ranging from olive-green to dark brown, often mottled or blotched to provide camouflage against stream beds. The most distinctive feature is the bright red-orange to orange-yellow margins on the dorsal, caudal, and anal fins, particularly vibrant in breeding males. Females and non-breeding males have duller fin coloration. A dark spot is often present at the base of the pectoral fin.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Bright red-orange to orange-yellow fin margins (especially in males), Two distinct dorsal fins, Large, broad head, Robust, cylindrical body, Dark spot at the base of the pectoral fin

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first dorsal fin is spiny, and the second is soft-rayed. The fin margins, especially of the second dorsal, are often red-orange.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is rounded to slightly emarginate, with red-orange margins.

Pectoral fin

Large and fan-like, often with a dark spot at the base. Used for maintaining position in currents.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin also exhibits red-orange margins, particularly in breeding males. Pelvic fins are fused to form a disc-like sucker, characteristic of gobies, used for adhesion to substrates.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Fin Coloration

   Look for the distinctive red-orange or orange-yellow margins on the dorsal, caudal, and anal fins. This is the most reliable field mark, especially in males.

2. 2

   Body Shape and Head

   Note the robust, somewhat cylindrical body and the relatively large, broad head. They are generally stockier than other bully species.

3. 3

   Pectoral Fin Spot

   Observe for a dark, often prominent, spot at the base of the pectoral fin. While present in other bullies, it's a good supporting feature.

4. 4

   Habitat

   Consider the habitat; Redfin bullies prefer clear, stony, fast-flowing streams and rivers, often in riffle zones.

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