Weever Goby

Weever Goby (Trachinus Linnaeus)

The Starry Weever can grow up to 37 centimeters in length and has an elongated, laterally compressed body. It features a prominent head, a broad, upward-facing mouth, and eyes positioned at the top of its head, giving it a distinctive look. The fish has two dorsal fins: the first one armed with six venomous spiny rays and the second one extending with softer rays. Its coloration varies from yellowish-brown to light greyish brown, decorated with numerous dark spots. The Starry Weever is found in the Eastern Atlantic Ocean and typically resides in sandy and muddy bottoms. It often buries itself during the day, leaving only its eyes exposed. As an ambush predator, it hunts shrimp and small fish. Notably, the Starry Weever lacks a swim bladder, which causes it to sink when stationary. A unique feature of the Starry Weever is its ability to deliver a venomous sting from both its dorsal fin and its gill covers.