Fin's Fish Guide
The Fivebeard rockling (Ciliata mustela) is a saltwater fish of the family Lotidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Northeast Atlantic, including the North Sea and the western Baltic Sea, on sandy and silty bottoms along the coast.
Description
The fivebeard rockling is a small cod relative of the family Lotidae reaching about 25 cm. The elongate, yellow-brown body bears five barbels: four around the snout and one on the chin. The first dorsal fin is peculiar: it consists of a row of fine, constantly vibrating rays in a groove, followed by a long second dorsal fin. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms in shallow coastal water and tidal areas of the north-eastern Atlantic, the North Sea and the Baltic, often among stones and weeds. Mainly at night it hunts small crustaceans, worms and small fish. Because of its small size it is not fished, but it is a common inhabitant of the tidal zone.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fivebeard rockling?
The Fivebeard rockling has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Cod-like fish with five barbels (four on the snout, one on the chin) and a first dorsal fin of fine, vibrating rays in a groove.
Where does the Fivebeard rockling live?
The Fivebeard rockling lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Atlantic, including the North Sea and the western Baltic Sea, on sandy and silty bottoms along the coast.
How big does the Fivebeard rockling get?
The Fivebeard rockling grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 17 cm.
Is the Fivebeard rockling dangerous to humans?
No, the Fivebeard rockling is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Fivebeard rockling edible?
The Fivebeard rockling is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Fivebeard rockling and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ciliata
More from the family Lotidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fivebeard rockling is one of 12,519 species in the app.