Latin name

Lubricogobius ornatus

Other name

Lubricogobius ornatus

Identification

Ornate slippery goby body depth 2.9-3.9 cm. Anterior nostrils present. Dorsal and ventral margins of caudal process without keels. Scales on head and body absent. Head lacks delicate pores, protruding papillae. 

Features of fish fins

Dorsal spines (total): 7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 8 - 10; Anal spines: 1; Anal soft rays: 6 - 7.

The caudal fin is rounded. The pelvic fins are connected by a well-developed bridle. 

Fish colouring

The colour of the fish is orange with pale blue lines diverging from the eyes and one that descends from the back of the head and divides into the forearm and the brow arch.

Distribution

Widespread in the Indo-West Pacific: Japan (Ryukyu Islands), Vietnam, Indonesia (North Sulawesi), Australia (from Western Australia to Queensland) and New Caledonia.

Habitat

Subtropical marine benthic species, depth range 17 to 79 m.

Size

Males of this species reach a maximum length of 3.4 cm.

Behavior

It inhabits sandy, muddy and rubbly bottoms and hides in dead sinks, worn pipes, shells, empty cans and bottles.

Food and feeding habits

They feed on small invertebrates and planktonic algae.

Reproduction

They lay their eggs on the substrate. Once the eggs are fertilised, the male guards them from predators and fans them to provide oxygen. The female takes care of the burrow. The larvae are born transparent and acquire colouration after reproduction in search of suitable habitat.

Fishing

This species is not commercially important.

Relationship with a person

Harmless.