Rhinogobius estrellae Maeda, Kunishima & Palla, 2021
Estrella goby
photo by Maeda, K.

Family:  Gobiidae (Gobies), subfamily: Gobionellinae
Max. size:  4.07 cm SL (male/unsexed); 4.53 cm SL (female)
Environment:  benthopelagic; freshwater
Distribution:  Asia: Philippines.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 7-8; Dorsal soft rays (total): 7-8; Anal spines: 1-1; Anal soft rays: 7-8; Vertebrae: 26-26. This species is distinguished by the following characcters: pectoral fin 14-16 rays (usually 15 rays); nape and posterior part of occipital region with cycloid scales and the scaled area extending anteriorly to around a vertical line through posterior margin of preopercle or a little posterior to this line; longitudinal scales 27-31, predorsal scales 3-11; total vertebrae 26; cephalic sensory pore system usually with B´, C, D(S), E, F, H´, K´, L´, M´, N, and O´, but often lacking one or both side(s) of pore E; cheek with transverse rows of sensory papillae. Colouration: when preserved, lateral and dorsal sides of the body with dark brown mesh-like markings, snout and cheek with three dark brown stripes, and pectoral fin with dark brown band vertically across proximal part of the upper and middle rays except lower 2-6 rays; when fresh, upper and middle parts of pectoral-fin base with bright white vertical band (Ref. 125663).
Biology:  Water temperature of collection sites Estrella Falls was cool even during the hottest dry season (water temperature was 26.5°C, 13 May, 2016), while water in the Malatgao River was warmer (estimated to be nearly 30°C) (Ref. 125663).
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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