Fin's Fish Guide
The Barnstickle (Apeltes quadracus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Gasterosteidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The fourspine stickleback (Apeltes quadracus) is a small fish of the family Gasterosteidae from the Atlantic coast of North America. The species owes its name to the separate spines in front of the dorsal fin and grows to only a few centimetres. It lives mainly along weedy bays and backwaters, entering brackish and to a limited extent fresh water. It forages on the bottom, sucking up mainly diatoms, worms and small crustaceans with a pipetting action. Like other sticklebacks the male builds a nest, which it guards and aerates with fresh water flow until the eggs hatch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barnstickle?
The Barnstickle has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Separate spines in front of the dorsal fin; the male builds and guards a nest.
Where does the Barnstickle live?
The Barnstickle lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Vegetated bays and coastal waters of eastern North America.
How big does the Barnstickle get?
The Barnstickle grows to a maximum of about 6 cm. On average the species is around 4 cm.
Is the Barnstickle dangerous to humans?
No, the Barnstickle is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Barnstickle edible?
The Barnstickle is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Gasterosteidae
Want the complete picture on the Barnstickle?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barnstickle is one of 12,519 species in the app.