Identification
The rock goby is one of Europe's larger gobies, reaching 12 cm. The body is robust and dark brown to black. Most distinctive is an orange to yellow band along the upper edge of the first dorsal fin. The head is broad and flattened with thick lips. Pelvic fins are fused into a suction disc.
Ecology
Lives in tidal pools and on rocky shores, from the low water line to a few meters depth. Territorial; males guard a nest cavity under a stone. Feeds on algae, small crustaceans, and worms.
In the Netherlands
The rock goby is rare in the Netherlands. More typical of the rocky coasts of southwestern Europe and the Mediterranean. Occasionally found on Zeeland breakwaters.
