Loki Whipgoby

The Loki Whipgoby, scientifically known as Bryaninops loki, is a small fish found in subtropical marine environments, particularly around coral reefs. These fish typically inhabit areas at depths ranging from 6 to 45 meters (approximately 20 to 148 feet). The Loki Whipgoby can reach a maximum length of 4.5 cm (about 1.8 inches).

This species is characterized by its distinctive brown saddle markings and a brown blotch near the base of its tail. It has a set of dorsal and anal fins: the dorsal fins consist of 6 to 7 spines and 7 to 9 soft rays, while the anal fins have 1 spine and 7 to 9 soft rays. The body is slightly compressed towards the back, with a head that is wider than it is deep. The snout is relatively short, about the same length as or shorter than the diameter of the eyes. The gill opening extends forward to the back edge of the eyes.

Loki Whipgobies are unique for living exclusively on sea whips and gorgonian corals. In 🇮🇩 Indonesia, they are commonly found in association with the coral species Junceela fragilis, especially on inshore reefs that have slight silty conditions. The fish's body is particularly intriguing, being transparent on the upper part, which is marked by seven narrow red bars that become broader and blend into a dusky golden color on the lower part of the body. Some individuals have these colors merged, making the bars less distinct. A white to pale yellow line can be seen along the vertebral column.

This species is widely distributed across the Indo-Pacific region. It ranges from the Ryukyu Islands (🇯🇵 Japan) in the 🌊 Pacific Ocean down to 🇦🇺 Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, extending eastward to places like 🇫🇯 Fiji, 🇼🇸 Samoa, and the Hawaiian Islands. It has also been reported in the undefined at the Chagos (🇮🇴 British Indian Ocean Territory) Archipelago and noted as being present in the 🌊 Red Sea, with sightings in places like 🇸🇩 Sudan, the Sinai Peninsula, and near the 🌊 Gulf of Aden. Despite its targeted habitats, the Loki Whipgoby is considered widespread across tropical regions, even as far south as Montague Island.