Nakedhead Shrimpgoby

Amblyeleotris gymnocephala

The Nakedhead Shrimpgoby is a reef-associated fish found in the Indo-West Pacific region. It is characterized by its elongated, circular body shape and distinctive color pattern. The goby displays a whitish or pale grey coloration with a prominent dark brown stripe running from behind the eye to the upper edge of the gill cover. Additionally, it has five wide, diffused brown bars on its sides and brown scribbling on the upper half of its body. Its pelvic fins are united by a membrane at the base of the fifth soft ray, and it lacks median predorsal scales. The caudal fin is lanceolate and about twice the length of the head. This species inhabits coastal sand slopes, mangroves, and bays, typically found at depths ranging from 5 to 35 meters, with a preference for around 20 meters on deeper slopes. Divers encountering the Nakedhead Shrimpgoby may observe it in sandy or muddy bottoms, often in association with shrimp, as it is known for its symbiotic relationships. The species is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.