Fin's Fish Guide
The Armed sculpin (Icelus armatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Cottidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Arctic and northern waters of the Arctic Ocean and adjacent parts of the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans, on stony bottoms in cold water.
Description
The armed sculpin is a small, stocky cold-water sculpin of the family Cottidae reaching about 12 cm. Characteristic of the genus Icelus is a row of small bony plates with hooks along the flank; the fish also bears spines on the head. The brown-mottled, partly scaleless body blends well against stones and gravel. The species is adapted to cold water and lives on stone and gravel bottoms of the cold northern seas. As a bottom-dweller it searches for small crustaceans and worms. The male guards the clutch laid on stones until it hatches. Because of its small size and remote habitat it is rarely seen and has no fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Armed sculpin?
The Armed sculpin has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Small, stocky cold-water sculpin with a large, broad head, head spines and a row of small bony plates along the flank; brown marbled for camouflage.
Where does the Armed sculpin live?
The Armed sculpin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Arctic and northern waters of the Arctic Ocean and adjacent parts of the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans, on stony bottoms in cold water.
How big does the Armed sculpin get?
The Armed sculpin grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Armed sculpin dangerous to humans?
No, the Armed sculpin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Armed sculpin edible?
The Armed sculpin is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Icelus
More from the family Cottidae
Want the complete picture on the Armed sculpin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Armed sculpin is one of 12,519 species in the app.