Vanderhorstia phaeosticta (Randall, Shao & Chen, 2007)
Yellowfoot shrimpgoby
Vanderhorstia phaeosticta
photo by Allen, G.R.

Family:  Gobiidae (Gobies), subfamily: Gobiinae
Max. size:  2.43 cm SL (female)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 8 - 20 m
Distribution:  Western Pacific: east Indian region (Sumatra eastward) to south to New Caledonia; north to Ryukyu Is.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 6-7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12-13; Anal spines: 1-1; Anal soft rays: 13-13. Characterized by having variable color, often pale grey to yellowish with row of large, diffuse blackish blotches on lower half of side; blue-edged yellow spots prominent on lower side between or on margin of blackish blotches; 6-7 diffuse, blackish saddles on back; head with yellow oblique bands; yellow pelvic fins with blue spots in adult ale; dorsal fin rays with short brown lines; prolonged filament formed by third dorsal spine, sometimes more than 50% SL in adult male; united pelvic fins, presence of well developed frenum; longitudinal scale series 46-52; circumpeduncular scales 11-12; cycloid body scales; head without scales except side of nape; greatest depth of body 5.8-6.5 in SL: ovate caudal fin, longer than head length (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Inhabits sandy shores, sometimes in seagrass, in 8-20 m (Ref 90102).
IUCN Red List Status: Data deficient (DD); Date assessed: 11 March 2015 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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