Twin-Spotted Frillfin

Bathygobius geminatus

The Twin-spotted Frillfin, a member of the goby family, is a small reef fish found in the Western Atlantic, specifically around Florida and Puerto Rico. It is characterized by its elongated body and distinct markings. This species can be identified by the two to three dark blotches on each element of its first dorsal fin, which create the appearance of longitudinal stripes. Along its lower body, there are two rows of dark spots that often form '=' shaped markings. These spots begin immediately behind the pectoral fin base and extend to just before the caudal fin. The Twin-spotted Frillfin reaches a maximum length of 3.8 cm in males and unsexed individuals. In terms of habitat, this fish is typically found in tropical marine environments, favoring rocky and sandy shorelines with seagrass. They are benthopelagic, meaning they live and feed near the bottom of the water column. Specimens have been collected in sheltered bays and near irrigation canals, often alongside other goby species. The conservation status of the Twin-spotted Frillfin is currently not evaluated by the IUCN. Divers encountering this species can expect a harmless interaction, as it poses no threat to humans.