Transparent Goby
Aphia minuta
Identification
The transparent goby is one of Europe's smallest fish: adults reach just 3 to 6 cm. The body is nearly completely transparent, making organs and spine visible to the naked eye. Only the eyes and swim bladder are clearly visible as dark dots. Males darken slightly during spawning season.
Ecology
Lives in shallow coastal waters and estuaries over sandy or muddy bottoms. The entire life cycle lasts only one year: born in spring, mature by autumn, spawning and dying before the next summer. This makes it one of the shortest-lived vertebrates. Feeds on microscopic plankton.
In the Netherlands
Found in the Wadden Sea, Oosterschelde, and along the coast. Almost never noticed due to its minute size and transparency. Serves as food for larger fish, shrimp, and birds.
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