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Photo © Audrey Jeane

2nd classified

Ghost of the Reef

Ghost of the Reef
by Simon Biddie


The ghost goby blends perfectly into its surroundings, disappearing like a shadow. Small reef fish, such as the ghost goby, are known as ‘cryptobenthic’ fish because they hide in crevices or camouflage themselves. They have transparent bodies, large angled eyes, fins with suction to maintain a firm grip, and low-set gills to conceal any movement. Gobies are experts at hiding, as they are able to blend in with coral to evade predators. Their small size and rapid growth mean they contribute up to 70% of the fish biomass, making them a critical part of the reef food chain.