Spotted Goby in Cozumel
Spotted Goby (Coryphopterus punctipectophorus) in Cozumel: how to identify it, where it is reliably seen, and what it is commonly confused with.
A small translucent goby that perches on sand and rubble, propped on its pelvic fins, marked with rows of orange-brown spots. It moves in short hops rather than swimming.
Quick ID
| Scientific name | Coryphopterus punctipectophorus |
|---|---|
| Group | Camouflaged & Odd-Shaped Fish |
| Typical size | Up to 7 cm |
| Depth range | 3–40 m |
| When to see it | Year-round |
| Active | Day |
| Conservation status | Least Concern |
How To Identify It
Pale, semi-translucent body with rows of orange to brown spots along the flanks and a spotted pectoral fin base. Blunt head, large eyes set high.
Where You Will See It In Cozumel
Spotted Goby works the 9 to 82 foot band. On this island that means the sheltered west-coast reefs, and the shallow east-side entries when the sea is flat — these are the sites where the depth and the habitat line up for it.
Without a boat. It is worth looking for at El Mirador, El Presidente and Money Bar — all shore entries, so you dive them on your own schedule.
On an ordinary beginner boat dive. It should be within reach at El Cielo, La Francesa, Las Palmas, Molas Shallow and Palancar Gardens. No advanced certification needed.
Deeper, and on the walls. It is also plausible on San Juan, Santa Rosa Wall, Tormentos and Villa Blanca Wall.
Conditions change the odds more than the site does — the current, the time of day and how much the group has already stirred up the sand. Ask your guide what they have been seeing that week.
Behaviour
Perches motionless, darting a short distance when disturbed and settling again. Feeds on small crustaceans taken from the bottom.
Gobies of this genus are among the most abundant fish on the reef by number and among the least noticed by divers.
Commonly Confused With
- Bridled goby — Similar shape, with a dark bar under the eye.
- Colon goby — Two dark marks like a colon on the flank.
- Blennies — Perch similarly but have a continuous dorsal fin and often head appendages.
Diving Etiquette And Safety
Keep fins off the reef and hands to yourself. Nothing here needs to be touched, moved or provoked to be seen well.
Part of the Cozumel marine life guide · see Cozumel dive sites · plan your Cozumel dive trip
Photo © Sydney Hoerler, courtesy of the Cozumel Coral Reef Restoration Program, used with permission.
Spotted Goby Photos
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is a spotted goby?
Where do you find spotted gobies in Cozumel?
How do you tell a goby from a blenny?
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