This small, shallow-water fish is associated with rocky seabeds, and grows to around 10cm. It is recognisable by its rounded head and dark patches or bands, which can be variable. Although gobies are generally difficult to tell apart, it is particularly similar to Afurcagobius tamarensis, from which it can be distinguished by its darker overall colouration and larger bands/patches. Although it can be found in brackish environments, it is also much less tolerant of freshwater than A. tamarensis.
