Fin's Fish Guide
The Arctic sculpin (Myoxocephalus scorpioides) is a saltwater fish of the family Cottidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Arctic coastal waters of the Arctic Ocean and adjacent seas, on stony and rocky bottoms of shallow, cold water.
Description
The Arctic sculpin is a stocky bottom fish of the family Cottidae (sculpins) reaching about 22 cm. Characteristic are the large, broad and flattened head with spines on the gill covers and the broad, fan-shaped pectoral fins with which the fish presses against the bottom. The brown-mottled, scaleless body blends well among stones and weed. The species lives on stone and rock bottoms in shallow, cold coastal water of the Arctic Ocean and adjacent seas around North America and Siberia. As an ambush predator it seizes crustaceans, worms and small fish from the bottom. In winter it spawns, after which the male guards the clutch laid among stones. Because of its small size it has no commercial importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Arctic sculpin?
The Arctic sculpin has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Stocky bottom fish with a large, broad head, spines on the opercula and fan-shaped pectoral fins; brown marbled for camouflage.
Where does the Arctic sculpin live?
The Arctic sculpin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Arctic coastal waters of the Arctic Ocean and adjacent seas, on stony and rocky bottoms of shallow, cold water.
How big does the Arctic sculpin get?
The Arctic sculpin grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Arctic sculpin dangerous to humans?
No, the Arctic sculpin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Arctic sculpin edible?
The Arctic sculpin is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Myoxocephalus
More from the family Cottidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Arctic sculpin is one of 12,519 species in the app.