Fin's Fish Guide
The Bullhead (Scorpaenichthys marmoratus) is a saltwater fish of the family Cottidae that grows up to 99 cm.
Description
The cabezon is a large sculpin of the family Cottidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about one metre and has a robust, scaleless, mottled body with a broad head, a skin flap on the snout and fringes above the eyes. It inhabits rocky, sandy and muddy bottoms and kelp forests. As an ambush predator it feeds on crustaceans, molluscs, small fishes and fish eggs. The male guards the eggs laid on the rocks. The cabezon is a valued sport and food fish with tasty flesh, but the roe (eggs) is toxic to humans; do not eat the eggs.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bullhead?
The Bullhead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Large, scaleless sculpin with a skin flap on the snout; tasty flesh but poisonous roe.
Where does the Bullhead live?
The Bullhead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; rocky, sandy and muddy bottoms and kelp forests.
How big does the Bullhead get?
The Bullhead grows to a maximum of about 99 cm.
Is the Bullhead dangerous to humans?
No, the Bullhead is harmless to humans. Not dangerous to handle, but the roe (eggs) is toxic to humans; do not eat the eggs. The flesh itself is edible.
Is the Bullhead edible?
Yes, the Bullhead is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Cottidae
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