Identification
A long, narrow body, relatively large mouth and well-separated dorsal fins characterize this fish. This profile covers Clevelandia ios. Other small estuarine gobies require separate identification even when they share a mudflat.
Size and Weight
A regional account lists a maximum length of 7.4 cm, about 2.9 inches. Another summary gives 6.4 cm standard length, which excludes the tail. The differing measurement conventions should be kept in mind. A verified maximum weight was not located.
Habitat and Natural Food
Sand and mud bottoms, eelgrass areas, lagoons and tidal channels are documented habitats. Its varied food includes microscopic algae and small animals; descriptions also record eggs and young associated with its burrow hosts.
Tidal Refuge
A goby can retreat into a shrimp burrow when threatened or when the tide falls. The burrow provides access to a protected space within an otherwise exposed flat. This association should not be confused with evidence that the fish constructed the burrow itself.
A Refuge Built by Another Animal
The goby’s use of shrimp burrows ties its habitat to the activity of another species. Sediment that appears bare from above can contain important shelter below the surface. The fish’s hiding places are therefore easy to overlook during a quick shoreline inspection.
All Lakes With Arrow Goby
Browse all lakes and reservoirs with confirmed Arrow Goby records in our database, listed alphabetically.
No published lakes are currently linked to this species in our confirmed records.