The Eyebar Goby, scientifically known as Gnatholepis anjerensis, is a species found in tropical marine and brackish environments, particularly associated with reefs. It resides at depths ranging from 1 to 46 meters (about 3 to 151 feet). This fish can grow to a maximum length of 8.4 cm (approximately 3.3 inches).
Characteristically, the Eyebar Goby has a small orange spot above the base of its pectoral fin. It has 6 to 7 spines and 11 soft rays on its dorsal fins, along with a single anal spine and 11 anal soft rays. Its scales are mostly of the ctenoid type, especially on the head and midline areas. The fish displays distinctive markings, such as at least three dark spots along the spines of its dorsal fins, followed by rows of dark spots or streaks. The pectoral fins are adorned with rows of dark and white speckles.
The goby has a stocky, compressed body, with body depth measurements varying at different parts. The head is also compressed, slightly deeper than it is wide, and features a blunt profile. Its mouth is slightly oblique and nearly terminal, typically extending to the front edge of the eye. The eyes themselves are moderately sized in larger specimens.
The Eyebar Goby prefers solitary living or can be found in loose groups. It inhabits shallow coastal bays and estuaries, often settling on silty sandy substrates with sparse algae-reefs or seagrasses. As a benthic creature, it feeds on organic matter and small invertebrates, and it spawns on the bottom.
Geographically, the Eyebar Goby is distributed throughout the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the 🌊 Persian Gulf and the 🌊 Red Sea to East Africa, extending to the Hawaiian, Marquesan, and Society Islands (🇵🇫 French Polynesia).
The name Gnatholepis combines Greek words for 'jaw' (gnathos) and 'scale' (lepis), reflecting its distinctive features.
Why it's threatened
Threat classification from the IUCN Red List.
