Fin's Fish Guide
The Fourspine sculpin (Cottus kazika) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Cottidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The fourspine sculpin is a sculpin (Cottidae) from Japan. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a large, broad head with spines and a backward-tapering body. It is amphidromous: adults live in summer in the middle reaches of rivers over a bottom of cobbles and stones, and in autumn migrate downstream to the river mouth to spawn, after which the larvae grow up at sea for a time. As a bottom predator it feeds on aquatic insects, crustaceans and small fishes. It is a valued local food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fourspine sculpin?
The Fourspine sculpin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Amphidromous: spawns at the river mouth and the larvae grow up at sea; broad, spiny head.
Where does the Fourspine sculpin live?
The Fourspine sculpin lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Japan; middle reaches of rivers and river mouths.
How big does the Fourspine sculpin get?
The Fourspine sculpin grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Fourspine sculpin dangerous to humans?
No, the Fourspine sculpin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Fourspine sculpin edible?
Yes, the Fourspine sculpin is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Fourspine sculpin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fourspine sculpin 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 Fourspine sculpin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fourspine sculpin is one of 12,519 species in the app.