Fin's Fish Guide
The Elegant sculpin (Antipodocottus elegans) is a saltwater fish of the family Cottidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The elegant sculpin is a small sculpin (Cottidae) from coastal waters of the southwest Pacific, around New Zealand and southeastern Australia. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a stocky body with a fairly large, spiny head, large pectoral fins and a scaleless, red-brown mottled skin. As a bottom-dweller it perches among stones and weed of cool rocky bottoms and snaps at small crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Elegant sculpin?
The Elegant sculpin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Elegant sculpin live?
The Elegant sculpin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Elegant sculpin get?
The Elegant sculpin grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Elegant sculpin dangerous to humans?
No, the Elegant 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Cottidae
Want the complete picture on the Elegant sculpin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Elegant sculpin is one of 12,519 species in the app.