ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Tubenose Goby

Tubenose Goby

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Tubenose gobies were introduced to the Great Lakes from the Black and Caspian Seas in Europe by the release of Ballast water from trans-Atlantic cargo ships in the early 1990's.

Tubenose Goby
Proterorhinus semilunaris

At-a-Glance

• Family: Gobiidae (Gobies)

• Other Names: None

• Ohio Status: Introduced

• Adult Size: Typically 2-3 inches, can reach 4 inches.

• Typical Foods: Various aquatic invertebrates. 
Description
Like all gobies, the tubenose goby has its two pelvic fins fused into a single suction cup shaped fin. This feature alone will distinguish them from any native species of fish found in Ohio. Additionally, the tubenose goby has two dorsal fins and does not have a black spot on the first dorsal fin. The body is a light brown color with darker brown blotches that can from vertical bars on the rear half of their sides. Tubenose gobies get their name from their tubular nostrils that extend to or just beyond the tip of their snout. Tubenose gobies differ from the round goby (another introduced species) by having tubular nostril extensions, eyes not protruding from the top of the head, and lacking a spot on the first dorsal fin.

Habitat and Habits 
The tubenose goby originated from the Black and Caspian Seas in Europe and was introduced to the Great Lakes by the release of ballast water from large trans-Atlantic cargo ships around 1990. They were first found in Lake Erie around the mid 1990's. They are found shallow areas often in and around vegetation. Since this species of goby is significantly smaller than the round goby they have likely had a much more minor effect on native fish species found in the Great Lakes than the much larger round goby. It is illegal to transport this species from Lake Erie under any circumstances. Please do your part to prevent the spread of this aquatic nuisance species.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Male tubenose gobies guard their nesting sites defending the eggs and young. They spawn multiple times during the warmer months of the year and as a result are rather prolific.