Gobiusculus flavescens (Fabricius, 1779)

Two-spotted Goby

Gobiusculus flavescens

Description: This is a small, slender bodied goby with adults reaching a maximum length of 6cm. The background colour varies from pale orange to orange-brown with a series of saddle-markings on the back. Along the sides there are alternate dark and pale blue markings which are most conspicuous in breeding males. There is a characteristic large black spot with a pale outer edge just in front of the tail fin, males have a similar spot on their sides, beneath the first dorsal fin.

Habitat: The two-spotted goby is unusual amongst gobies in that it spends most of its life swimming above the seabed rather than resting on it. It is usually found hovering above seaweed covered rock in depths down to approximately 15m, however it can sometimes be found in deep rockpools on the low shore.

Distribution: This species is common all around the coasts of Britain and Ireland.

Similar Species: The characteristic markings and behaviour of the two-spotted goby distinguish it from other species.

Key Identification Features:

• Conspicuous black spot in front of tail fin
• Males have second black spot on their sides
• Small shoals dart backwards and forwards above the seabed

Distribution Map: NBN map : National Biodiversity Network mapping facility, data for UK.

WoRMS: Species record : World Register of Marine Species.

iNaturalist: Species account : iNaturalist World Species Observations database