Slender and elongated body that tapers down to a long lanceolate tail. Tail fin is longer than most other goby species. Has a dark ocellated spot above the belly under the base of the first dorsal fin. Another dark spot may be observed at the base of the tail fin. Base of the pectoral fins appear dark. Upper back appears brown/tan, olive-green, or silver-brown/green in color and fades to silver/white at the belly. Cheeks may appear silver-green with a dark bar/stripe below the eye. It has a forward-facing mouth, and its body is scaled. A chevron pattern may be observed along the sides of the body.
Average Maximum Size:
20 cm (8 in)
Adults Distinguishing Characteristics:
The Highfin Goby's elongated lanceolate caudal fin can be used to distinguish it from the Freshwater Goby, Frillfin Goby, Green Goby, Naked Goby, and Seaboard Goby. The Emerald Goby and Violet Goby which share the lanceolate caudal shape of the Highfin Goby can be discerned by their lack of a distinct dark ocellated spot beneath the first dorsal and an additional dark spot at the base of the caudal fin.
Juveniles Distinguishing Characteristics:
Range:
Virginia to Brazil.
Habitat:
Found in coastal salt and brackish waters with soft muddy bottoms. They are typically found in bays, tidal streams, and salt marshes.
