Range extension and re-recording of Redigobius bikolanus (Herre, 1927) from Great Nicobar, India

Abstract

Redigobius is a genus of goby fish belonging to order Gobiiformes. Redigobius is currently represented by 15 species worldwide of which Redigobius bikolanus is a widespread species. This species was recorded previously from Middle Andaman Island in 2002. There was not a single evidence of the species after that time, from Indian region. Recently, during a faunal survey in great Nicobar Island resulted in collection of a R. bikolanus for the first time and proving evidence for range extension of the same from Nicobar group of Islands. The species was collected from one of the estuarine creeks of Great Nicobar island. Details of the morphological data, live colouration and wild habitat are provided for the new record.

Keywords

• Andaman Nicobar Islands
• estuarine ecosystem
• goby fish
• mangrove
• Redigobius