How to Identify Bucchich's Goby

To identify Bucchich's Goby (Gobius bucchichi), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

The body coloration is highly variable, ranging from light brown to reddish-brown or olive-green, often mottled with darker spots and blotches that aid in camouflage. A distinctive feature is a series of dark, often indistinct, vertical bars or saddles along the flanks. The fins are typically translucent with some darker markings.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Two dorsal fins, separated or narrowly joined at the base., Pelvic fins fused into a disc-like sucker., A prominent dark spot, often ocellated (ringed with a lighter color), on the upper part of the operculum (gill cover)., A series of dark blotches or saddles along the lateral line., Typically reaches a maximum total length of 8-10 cm, though some individuals may reach up to 12 cm.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; D1 VI-VII (spines), D2 I (spine) + 10-12 (soft rays). The first dorsal fin is typically lower than the second.

Tail fin

Caudal fin rounded.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively large and rounded, with 16-18 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are fused into a prominent, anteriorly concave disc-like sucker, characteristic of gobies, used for adhesion to substrates.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Opercular Spot

   Look for a distinct dark, often ocellated, spot on the upper part of the gill cover. This is a key distinguishing feature.

2. 2

   Body Coloration and Pattern

   Observe the mottled brown to olive-green body with irregular dark blotches or saddles along the flanks, which provide excellent camouflage.

3. 3

   Pelvic Fin Sucker

   Confirm the presence of the fused pelvic fins forming a ventral sucker disc, typical of gobies, used for clinging to surfaces.

4. 4

   Dorsal Fins

   Note the two separate or narrowly joined dorsal fins, with the first dorsal fin being lower than the second.

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