The burrowing goby Trypauchen vagina has been reported from Brazil for the first time. This goby occurs naturally in the Indo-Pacific region, where it is typically found burrowed in the bottom substrata of marine or brackish waters. Given its rapid development, extended longevity and multiple spawning cycles, the species is represented by large populations in Asian countries. The authors discuss the occurrence of this species in Brazilian waters and conclude that it was introduced via the ballast water of vessels arriving from Asia. They also compare this exotic taxon with the native Brazilian gobies, including Akko dionaea, Microdesmus and Gobioides, that have burrowing habits.
Keywords: Maranhão; ballast water; invasion; worm goby.
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