Blacktip Sandgoby

Fusigobius melacron

The Blacktip Sandgoby is a small reef fish found in the Indo-West Pacific region. It is characterized by its semi-translucent grey body adorned with numerous small yellowish-brown or dusky orange-red spots. A series of larger dark blotches can be seen along its back, and the outer half of its first dorsal fin is brown to blackish, which is a distinctive feature. The pelvic fins are united only at the base, and the species lacks a pelvic frenum. Its caudal fin is rounded, and it has ctenoid scales except for cycloid scales on the breast, base of the pectoral fin, and a few scales on the side of the nape. The operculum is without scales, and the opening of the gill extends to below the rear edge of the preopercle. The body is elongated with a depth of 4.7-5.2 in standard length (SL). Females can reach a maximum length of 3.6 cm SL, while males and unsexed individuals can grow up to 3.5 cm SL. This species inhabits sand-rubble bottoms adjacent to reefs, typically at depths ranging from 7 to 31 meters. Divers are likely to encounter this goby in tropical marine environments, where it is often seen near the substrate, blending with its surroundings. The Blacktip Sandgoby is harmless to humans and is not utilized in commercial fisheries, though it may be part of subsistence fishing practices. The conservation status of the Blacktip Sandgoby is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. Divers observing this species can enjoy watching its subtle movements as it navigates the sandy and rubble-strewn habitats it calls home.