IDENTITY RECORD

Round goby

SCIENTIFIC NAME

Neogobius melanostomus

Description

I am a small fish measuring about 8-15 cm with distinctive protruding eyes and thick lips. The name comes from my round mouth which distinguishes me from the tubenose goby (Proterorhinus semilunaris) which has nostril tubes.

Behavior

Diet

I eat insect larvae and fish eggs.

Reproduction

I lay between 500 and 3,000 eggs which hatch 2-3 weeks later.

Where and when can you find me in the reserve?

Habitat

I love the sandy beds of rivers and lakes but I am very adaptable.

When to spot me

All-year-round.

Did you know?

Originally from the Black Sea and the tributaries of its basin, I arrived in Europe in the ballast water of ships. Today I have invaded the Rhine basin where you can find me in many rivers and lakes.

Conservation status

• In France I am considered an invasive alien species.