Introducing our August Fish of the Month, the Blackeye Goby Rhinogobiops nicholsii!
Survey Regions: The Blackeye Goby is found through the Pacific coasts of the US and Canada (PAC region) including southern California to British Columbia, and is present but uncommon near Alaska. They can also be found in northern and central Baja, part of the Tropical Eastern Pacific (TEP) region. Follow these links to see distribution reports for this species in the REEF database: PAC and TEP.
Size: They are typically between 1-4 inches and can grow to a maximum size of 6 inches.
Identifying Features: Blackeye Gobies are dark to pale tan and can have some pale blue spots or blotches. They usually have dark eyes and a small, blue, opalescent spot below the eye. They also have a black edge on their first dorsal fin.
Fun Facts: Blackeye Gobies are found on sandy areas near rocky outcroppings or structures like docks. They like to make dens in sand or silt, or they may occupy crevices or submerged objects like bottles, jars, or tires.
Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for our next Fish of the Month.
Photo by Janna Nichols.