The spotted goby (*Pomatoschistus pictus*) is a small, benthic fish native to the coastal waters of the eastern North Atlantic, including the North Sea, Baltic Sea, and Mediterranean. Characterized by its translucent body adorned with dark spots, this species inhabits sandy and rocky substrates in shallow marine environments. While not a major target of large-scale commercial fisheries, the spotted goby is harvested primarily as bycatch and for local consumption or bait in countries such as the United Kingdom and Italy. The UK, with its extensive North Sea and English Channel coastlines, and Italy, bordering the Mediterranean, are among the top countries where spotted gobies are caught, often as part of mixed small fish fisheries. In both nations, the species contributes modestly to local fishing economies, supporting artisanal fishers and serving as an indicator of healthy coastal ecosystems.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.