Typhlogobius californiensis Steindachner, 1879

Taxonomic Classification

The blind goby, scientifically named Typhlogobius californiensis, is a fish species belonging to the goby family Oxudercidae. It is the only species in the genus Typhlogobius.

Habitat and Range

This fish is native to the coastlines of southern California in the United States and Baja California in Mexico, and it commonly lives inside the burrows of shrimp from the genus Callianassa.

Mating Behavior

Mate guarding is a behavior seen in this species, performed by males, and this behavior may benefit their offspring by helping the male guard against potential predators.

Diet

Blind gobies are omnivores that feed on invertebrates including crustaceans.

Visual and Pigmentation Traits

Adult blind gobies are completely blind and lack pigmentation, while juveniles have simple, underdeveloped eyes that help them locate shrimp burrows.

Size

This species can grow to a total length of 8.3 centimeters, or 3.3 inches.