Mud-Reef Goby

Exyrias belissimus

The Mud-reef Goby is a small reef-associated fish found in tropical waters of the Indo-West Pacific, ranging from East Africa to Samoa, and extending north to the Yaeyama Islands and south to Fiji. It typically inhabits lagoon and seaward reefs, preferring silty bottoms near or under overhanging corals. Divers can spot this species at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters, with most sightings occurring at shallower depths. This goby can be identified by its distinct coloration: the dorsal half of its body is brown, while the ventral half is yellow, adorned with 7 to 8 dark brown bars. Its cheeks and opercula feature small silvery white spots. The first dorsal fin often has elongated spines, with the third and fourth being the longest. The second dorsal fin's spine is marked with alternating red and white bands. The Mud-reef Goby is a territorial species that feeds by sifting sediment through its gill rakers. It is harmless to humans and is sometimes found in commercial fisheries and aquariums. The IUCN lists this species as Least Concern.