Taxonomy
A goby in the family Rhyacichthyidae; scientific name Rhyacichthys aspro.
Loach Goby
Rhyacichthys aspro
The loach goby (Rhyacichthys aspro) is a goby in the family Rhyacichthyidae.
Last Updated Mar 9, 2026 · 2 sources
Species Guide
What to know about loach gobies
A clean field guide focused on habitat, identification, behavior, and conservation context without burying the useful parts.
The loach goby, Rhyacichthys aspro, is a species of goby belonging to the family Rhyacichthyidae. It is not fished commercially.
The strongest linked planning options currently surface around destinations such as Zeeland (Oosterschelde and Grevelingenmeer), Okinawa, Coral Coast, Viti Levu and countries such as Netherlands, Japan, Indonesia for divers building trips around loach gobies.
Identification
How to identify loach gobies
The visual markers divers can use underwater, plus the species most likely to cause confusion.
Key identification markers
Responsible Encounters
How to dive with loach gobies
Conservation-minded guidance for divers who want the encounter without adding pressure.
Give loach goby space, avoid blocking the animal's path, and follow local site and operator rules for wildlife interactions with freshwater fishes.
