Gobiopsis atrata (Griffin, 1933)
New Zealand black goby

Family:  Gobiidae (Gobies), subfamily: Gobiinae
Max. size:  8.5 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  demersal; marine; depth range 0 - 30 m
Distribution:  Southwest Pacific: endemic to New Zealand.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 6-7; Anal spines: 1-1; Anal soft rays: 10-10. Uniformly dark brown or black with irregular markings on head and operculum and a conspicuous white semi-circular marking on shoulder at base of pectoral fin. Larger individuals mottled with irregular blotches on head and body. Pectoral, pelvic and anal fins becoming paler distally.
Biology:  Occurs in rock pools and deeper reefs, usually in narrow crevices where fine silt accumulates. Secretive and usually only the head is seen protruding out of the crevice; will retreat when disturbed.
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


Source and more info: www.fishbase.org. For personal, classroom, and other internal use only. Not for publication.