Latin name

Favonigobius reichei

Other name

Tropical sand goby

Identification

The body of the Indo-Pacific Tropical Sand Goby is elongated, valvate. The snout is rounded. The mouth is upper. Eyes set high. Air breathing optional.

Features of fish fins

Dorsal spines (total): 7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 8; Anal spines: 1; Anal soft rays: 7 - 8.

Fish colouring

The general background of the Indopacific Tropical Sand Goby is grayish with small purple spots. Males may have a small dark spot on the dorsal fin and also have pigtails that are more brightly colored. 

Distribution

Widespread in the Indo-West Pacific: from East Africa to the Philippines, north to Japan, south to northern Australia.

Habitat

Tropical, marine, freshwater, brackish, bottom dwelling. Habitat depth range from 0 to 5 m.

Size

This species can reach a length of 8.3 centimeters (3.3 inches).

Behavior

Amphidromous fish. Prefer muddy or sandy substrates, often with weed growth. Usually live in small groups.

Food and feeding habits

It feeds mainly on small crustaceans. 

Reproduction

There is no captive breeding information for this species.

Fishing

This species is not commercially important.

Relationship with a person

Harmless.