Fin's Fish Guide
The Great sculpin (Myoxocephalus polyacanthocephalus) is a saltwater fish of the family Cottidae that grows up to 80 cm.
Description
The great sculpin is a sculpin (Cottidae) from the northern Pacific. The species has a large, broad head with spines on the gill cover and a rearward-tapering body without scales. It lives bottom-bound from the intertidal to about two hundred and fifty metres depth, on sand and mud bottoms. As an ambush hunter it takes crustaceans, molluscs and fishes. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Great sculpin?
The Great sculpin has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Large broad head with opercular spines; ambush bottom fish of the northern Pacific.
Where does the Great sculpin live?
The Great sculpin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North Pacific; from the intertidal zone to deeper water.
How big does the Great sculpin get?
The Great sculpin grows to a maximum of about 80 cm.
Is the Great sculpin dangerous to humans?
No, the Great sculpin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Great sculpin edible?
Yes, the Great sculpin is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Myoxocephalus
More from the family Cottidae
Want the complete picture on the Great sculpin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Great sculpin is one of 12,519 species in the app.