Wide-Barred Shrimpgoby

Amblyeleotris latifasciata

The Wide-barred Shrimpgoby is a reef fish belonging to the family Gobiidae, known for its distinctive appearance and symbiotic relationship with burrowing alpheid prawns. It typically reaches a maximum length of 13.0 cm and is characterized by a generally dark brown body adorned with 3 to 4 broad dark bars on its sides. Its head features bluish-white spots or bands, while the dorsal fins are marked with pale-edged red spots. The pelvic fins are united by a low membrane at their base, and the species lacks median predorsal scales. The caudal fin is lanceolate and longer than the head length, contributing to its elongated body shape with a circular cross-section. This species is found in the tropical waters of the Western Pacific, with a distribution range that includes the Gulf of Thailand, the Philippines, and Bali, Indonesia. It inhabits coastal to outer reef sand slopes, typically at depths ranging from 10 to 25 meters, although it can be found between 5 and 40 meters. The Wide-barred Shrimpgoby is often seen on sandy or rubble substrates, where it forms a symbiotic association with burrowing prawns, sharing burrows for protection. Currently assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, the Wide-barred Shrimpgoby poses no threat to humans and is considered harmless. Divers encountering this species may observe its shy behavior as it hovers near its burrow, often retreating quickly when approached. This goby is a subject for underwater photographers due to its unique coloration and behavior.