Fin's Fish Guide
The Japanese sculpin (Cottus reinii) is a freshwater fish of the family Cottidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The Japanese sculpin is a small freshwater sculpin of the family Cottidae, endemic to Japan. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a stocky body with a broad, flattened head, a large mouth and no scales. It lives on the bottom of clear, cool brooks and rivers, sheltering among stones and gravel. As a bottom predator it often lies motionless in ambush and seizes insect larvae, small crustaceans and small fishes. Sculpins lack a swim bladder and move over the bottom in short hops. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese sculpin?
The Japanese sculpin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Broad, flattened head without scales; lacks a swim bladder and moves over the bottom in little hops.
Where does the Japanese sculpin live?
The Japanese sculpin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Japan; clear, cool streams and rivers.
How big does the Japanese sculpin get?
The Japanese sculpin grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Japanese sculpin dangerous to humans?
No, the Japanese sculpin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Japanese sculpin edible?
The Japanese sculpin is not usually eaten.
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Status & sources
Same genus Cottus
More from the family Cottidae
Want the complete picture on the Japanese sculpin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese sculpin is one of 12,519 species in the app.