Emerald coral goby
📖 Overview
Emerald coral goby (Paragobiodon xanthosoma) is a ray-finned fish of the family Gobiidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in reef-associated environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 4 cm. With a trophic level of 3.1, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Commercially fished and consumed as food.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 8 - 10; Anal spines: 1; Anal soft rays: 8 - 9. Green to greenish yellow in color, often with a dark caudal margin; adults with elongate flaps on top of head . Transverse scales 10. Mouth nearly vertical, lips thick. Head and nape naked to first dorsal fin origin. Gill opening located at same level as pectoral base. Ventral small; first dorsal and anal lower than 2nd dorsal; pectoral extends beyond anus; caudal rounded. Scales less firmly attached than other congeneric species .; characterized further by having longitudinal scale series 22-24; ctenoid scales except head, nape, prepectoral region, breast and midventral portion of abdomen which is scaleless; head and nape with numerous bristle-like cirri; complete pelvic fin frenum and basal membrane; depth of body at level of pelvic fins 2.6-3.1 in SL .: short and / or deep; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Emerald coral goby is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Emerald coral goby is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Monogamous mating is observed as both obligate and social .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; non-migratory ; depth range ? - 70 m . Tropical; 30°N - 32°S, 32°E - 169°W
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Emerald coral goby is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked - Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 17.8 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 138 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Emerald coral goby has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gobius xanthosoma | Bleeker | 1853 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 1 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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