Triplespot Shrimpgoby

Amblyeleotris triguttata

The Triplespot Shrimpgoby, known scientifically as Amblyeleotris triguttata, is a small reef fish that can grow up to 9.0 cm in length. It is easily recognizable by its distinctive black spots—one located on the nape above the opercle and two on the first dorsal fin. The body is elongated and features irregular brown markings interspersed with brownish-red bars. A notable characteristic is the curving dark brown line that extends from below the eye to the posterior margin of the maxilla. This species inhabits the Western Indian Ocean, specifically the Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, and Persian Gulf. It thrives in tropical marine environments, particularly on sand-rubble substrates, at depths ranging from 2 to 17 meters. The Triplespot Shrimpgoby is symbiotic with the snapping shrimp Alpheus bellulus, a relationship that divers may observe as the goby often stands guard while the shrimp digs and maintains their shared burrow. Divers encountering this species can expect a harmless interaction. The Triplespot Shrimpgoby is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.