Fin's Fish Guide
The Grubby sculpin (Myoxocephalus aenaeus) is a saltwater fish of the family Cottidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Northwest Atlantic along the coast of North America, in shallow, cold coastal water with stones, seaweeds and estuaries.
Description
The grubby sculpin is a small, stocky bottom fish of the family Cottidae (sculpins) reaching about 18 cm. The broad, flattened head bears spines on the gill cover and the fish has large, fan-shaped pectoral fins and a scaleless skin; the brown, marbled camouflage makes it nearly invisible on the bottom. The species lives in shallow, cold coastal water with stones, weed and estuaries along the northwest Atlantic coast. As a bottom hunter it takes small crustaceans, shrimp, worms and small fish. Although it looks spiny it is harmless to humans. In the cold months the female lays clumps of sticky eggs on stones and weed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Grubby sculpin?
The Grubby sculpin has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Small, stocky bottom-dwelling fish with a broad, spiny head, large pectoral fins and marbled camouflage colouring.
Where does the Grubby sculpin live?
The Grubby sculpin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Northwest Atlantic along the coast of North America, in shallow, cold coastal water with stones, seaweeds and estuaries.
How big does the Grubby sculpin get?
The Grubby sculpin grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Grubby sculpin dangerous to humans?
No, the Grubby sculpin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Grubby sculpin edible?
The Grubby sculpin is not usually eaten.
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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 Grubby sculpin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Grubby sculpin is one of 12,519 species in the app.