Fin's Fish Guide
The Black sculpin (Cottus baileyi) is a freshwater fish of the family Cottidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Eastern North America, in springs and rocky riffles of upper reaches and streams in the Appalachians.
Description
The black sculpin is a small bottom fish (family Cottidae) of eastern North America. The species reaches about 8 cm and has a stocky body with a large, broad head and a dark, mottled colour pattern. It inhabits cool springs and rocky, fast-flowing riffles of headwaters and creeks in the Appalachians. Its diet consists of aquatic insect larvae and small invertebrates. Sculpins are active mainly at night and lay their eggs under stones, where the male guards them. Because of its small size the species is of no fishery value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black sculpin?
The Black sculpin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Small bottom-dwelling fish with a large head; inhabits cool springs and fast-flowing riffles, eggs under stones.
Where does the Black sculpin live?
The Black sculpin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern North America, in springs and rocky riffles of upper reaches and streams in the Appalachians.
How big does the Black sculpin get?
The Black sculpin grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Black sculpin dangerous to humans?
No, the Black sculpin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black sculpin edible?
The Black sculpin is not usually eaten.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Cottus
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 Black sculpin is one of 12,519 species in the app.