Fin's Fish Guide
The Comb sculpin (Icelinus borealis) is a saltwater fish of the family Cottidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The northern sculpin is a small sculpin from the cold waters of the northern Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a slender body with a large head and rows of small spinelets along the back, and in males a few elongated front dorsal-fin rays. As a bottom-dweller it lives on sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf, between about 9 and 310 metres, and hunts small crustaceans and worms. The fish is harmless to humans and has no commercial value. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Comb sculpin?
The Comb sculpin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Small dorsal spines and elongated dorsal fin rays (male); small bottom-dwelling sculpin
Where does the Comb sculpin live?
The Comb sculpin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North Pacific
How big does the Comb sculpin get?
The Comb sculpin grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Comb sculpin dangerous to humans?
No, the Comb sculpin 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 Comb sculpin edible?
The Comb sculpin is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Icelinus
More from the family Cottidae
Want the complete picture on the Comb sculpin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Comb sculpin is one of 12,519 species in the app.