About Pomatoschistus microps (Krøyer, 1838)
Dorsal Fin Structure
This species, the common goby (Pomatoschistus microps), has two dorsal fins separated by a narrow gap. The anterior dorsal fin contains six to eight spines, while the posterior dorsal fin holds eight to eleven soft rays.
Pelvic Fins
Its pelvic fins are fused.
Lateral Line Scales
There are 39 to 51 scales along the lateral line, and these scales are slightly larger than the scales of the closely related sand goby, Pomatoschistus minutus.
Caudal Fin Shape
The caudal fin of the common goby is rounded.
Male Specific Markings
Males have a prominent dark spot on the anterior dorsal fin, along with dark markings at the base of the pectoral fins and at the base of the caudal fin.
Base Body Coloration
Outside of distinct markings, the common goby’s base body color is light grey or sandy brown, with indistinct dark body markings and dark striations across its pale fins.
Breeding Season Color Change
During the breeding season, the male’s overall color darkens, and his fins become more intensely colored.
Body Size
The common goby has an average body length of 4 to 5 cm (1.6 to 2.0 in), and reaches a maximum length of around 9 cm (3.5 in).
