Common Goby
Pomatoschistus microps
The Common Goby (Pomatoschistus microps) is a small marine fish from the goby family, typically reaching up to 6 cm in length. It has an elongated body often marked with dark spots on its back and sides. This species is primarily found in coastal waters of Europe, inhabiting both salt and brackish environments, usually along sandy or muddy shores. It is a benthic fish that spends most of its time near the bottom, hiding among aquatic plants or under stones. Its diet consists mainly of small invertebrates such as crustaceans, insect larvae, and nematodes. The Common Goby plays an important role in coastal ecosystems as both a predator and prey for larger fish and seabirds. Spawning occurs in spring and summer, during which males build and guard nests in rock crevices or under stones. Females lay eggs in the nests, and males protect them until the young hatch. The Common Goby is a relatively resilient and widespread species, although it can be locally sensitive to pollution and environ
Minimum size: 0 cm
Protection from: January
Protection to: December
