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Gobiopsis atrata (Griffin, 1933) New Zealand black goby |
| Family: | Gobiidae (Gobies), subfamily: Gobiinae | |||
| Max. size: | 8.5 cm TL (male/unsexed) | |||
| Environment: | demersal; marine; depth range 0 - 30 m | |||
| Distribution: | Southwest Pacific: endemic to New Zealand. | |||
| Diagnosis: | Dorsal spines (total): 6-7; Anal spines: 1-1; Anal soft rays: 10-10. Uniformly dark brown or black with irregular markings on head and operculum and a conspicuous white semi-circular marking on shoulder at base of pectoral fin. Larger individuals mottled with irregular blotches on head and body. Pectoral, pelvic and anal fins becoming paler distally. | |||
| Biology: | Occurs in rock pools and deeper reefs, usually in narrow crevices where fine silt accumulates. Secretive and usually only the head is seen protruding out of the crevice; will retreat when disturbed. | |||
| IUCN Red List Status: | Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 19 March 2024 Ref. (130435) | |||
| Threat to humans: | harmless | |||