Fin's Fish Guide
The Bullhead (Cottus gobio) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cottidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Widespread in fresh water of Europe, in cool, fast-flowing and oxygen-rich streams and rivers with a stony or gravel bottom.
Description
The European bullhead is a small bottom fish of the family Cottidae reaching about 18 cm but usually smaller. It has a large, broad, flattened head, scaleless skin, broad pectoral fins and a spine on the gill cover; the brownish mottled body provides excellent camouflage among stones. Lacking a swim bladder, it rests on the bottom and moves in short hops. It lives in cool, fast-flowing, oxygen-rich streams and rivers with a stony or gravelly bottom in Europe and is regarded as an indicator of clean water. By day it shelters under stones; at night it hunts insect larvae, crustaceans and fish eggs. In spring the male guards the eggs laid under a stone.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bullhead?
The Bullhead has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bottom fish with a large, broad, flattened head, scaleless skin and a spine on the operculum; lacks a swim bladder and therefore lies on the bottom.
Where does the Bullhead live?
The Bullhead lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Widespread in fresh water of Europe, in cool, fast-flowing and oxygen-rich streams and rivers with a stony or gravel bottom.
How big does the Bullhead get?
The Bullhead grows to a maximum of about 18 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Bullhead dangerous to humans?
No, the Bullhead is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bullhead edible?
The Bullhead is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Bullhead and live in the same waters.
Want the complete picture on the Bullhead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bullhead is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cottus
More from the family Cottidae
Want the complete picture on the Bullhead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bullhead is one of 12,519 species in the app.