Spangled Shrimpgoby

Vanderhorstia dorsomacula

The Spangled Shrimpgoby is a small reef fish from the family Gobiidae, reaching a maximum length of 4.0 cm. It is characterized by an elongated body with a compressed cross-section. Males exhibit a bluish body color with a white abdomen and yellow spots covering the head and body. A distinctive blue mid-dorsal stripe runs along the head, and yellow spotting adorns the dorsal fin. Females resemble males but have irregular dark spots on the first dorsal fin and yellow streaks instead of spots. This goby is known for its symbiotic relationship with the snapping shrimp Alpheus cf rapacida, sharing burrows in the Western Pacific, particularly in regions like Papua New Guinea and Majuro. The Spangled Shrimpgoby inhabits tropical marine environments, typically found in estuaries, lagoons, and sheltered reefs at depths ranging from 20 to 38 meters. Divers might encounter this species in benthopelagic zones, where it often resides in burrows created by its shrimp partner. In terms of conservation, the Spangled Shrimpgoby is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. Divers observing this species can expect to see it in its natural habitat, often near its burrow, exhibiting symbiotic behavior with its shrimp partner. The goby's coloration and unique partnership with the snapping shrimp make it an intriguing subject for underwater observation.