Round Goby

Neogobius melanostomus

Description

Adults 4-10 in.; gray-green and brown markings; greenish dorsal fin lacks spines; black spot on front dorsal fin. From Black and Caspian Seas.

Habitat

Prefer rock, sand, gravel, and hide in crevices; can tolerate wide temperature and oxygen ranges; can live in slightly brackish or low quality water; nocturnal feeders.

Location in Nebraska

Not known to exist in Nebraska. Found primarily in the Great Lakes and its tributaries.

Pathway of Introduction and Spread

Personal aquarium dumping, escape from aquaculture pens, bait bucket release, ship ballast water, and other activities.

Impacts

Outcompete native fishes for food, prey on darters, sculpin, eggs/fry of lake trout and sturgeon. Aggressive behavior drives fish from spawning areas.

Photo Credits: 

Dave Jude, Center for Great Lakes Aquatic Sciences
Eric Engbretson—U.S. Fish and Wildlife