Come identificare Red-mouthed Goby

Per identificare Red-mouthed Goby (Gobius cruentatus), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

elongated

Colorazione

The body is typically mottled brown to reddish-brown, often with darker blotches or bands that provide camouflage against the substrate. The most striking feature is the bright red or orange coloration inside the mouth and on the edges of the gill covers, which is particularly prominent when the fish displays aggression or yawns. The fins are generally translucent with some darker markings.

Tipo di squame

ctenoid

Posizione della bocca

terminal

Caratteristiche distintive

Bright red or orange coloration inside the mouth and on the opercular margins., Two dorsal fins, the first with 6-7 spines, the second with 1 spine and 13-15 soft rays., Large head with prominent eyes., Robust body with ctenoid scales., Pelvic fins fused into a disc-like sucker.

Pinna dorsale

Two dorsal fins; D1: VI-VII spines; D2: I spine, 13-15 soft rays. The first dorsal fin is typically higher than the second.

Pinna caudale

Rounded caudal fin.

Pinna pettorale

Large and rounded pectoral fins, typically with 17-19 rays.

Pinne distintive

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

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Mouth Coloration

   The most definitive feature is the vivid red or orange coloration inside the mouth and on the opercular margins. This is often visible when the fish opens its mouth, especially during territorial displays or feeding.

2. 2

   Body Shape and Color

   Elongated, robust body with mottled brown to reddish-brown patterns. Look for darker blotches or bands that help it blend with the substrate.

3. 3

   Fin Structure

   Observe the two distinct dorsal fins and the fused pelvic fins forming a suction cup. The first dorsal fin is usually taller than the second.

4. 4

   Size

   Adults typically reach a maximum total length of 18-20 cm, though most commonly observed specimens are 10-15 cm.

Esplora Red-mouthed Goby