Fin's Fish Guide
The Daubed shanny (Leptoclinus maculatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Stichaeidae that grows up to 20 cm.
North Atlantic and the Arctic Ocean, on sandy and silty bottoms in cold water.
Description
The daubed shanny is a slender, eel-like cold-water fish of the family Stichaeidae reaching about 20 cm. The elongate, brownish body bears a row of dark spots along the base of the long, low dorsal fin, which runs along almost the entire back. Juveniles have a conspicuous fat-filled sac in the belly that helps them float and store energy. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms in the cold water of the northern Atlantic and the Arctic Ocean, from shallow water to several hundred metres. It feeds on small crustaceans, worms and other bottom life. As an abundant cold-water fish it is important prey for seabirds, seals and larger fish in Arctic food webs.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Daubed shanny?
The Daubed shanny has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Slender, eel-like small cold-water fish with a long, low dorsal fin and a row of dark blotches; juveniles have a conspicuous fat sac in the belly.
Where does the Daubed shanny live?
The Daubed shanny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North Atlantic and the Arctic Ocean, on sandy and silty bottoms in cold water.
How big does the Daubed shanny get?
The Daubed shanny grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Daubed shanny dangerous to humans?
No, the Daubed shanny is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Daubed shanny edible?
The Daubed shanny is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Daubed shanny and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Stichaeidae
Want the complete picture on the Daubed shanny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Daubed shanny is one of 12,519 species in the app.