Fin's Fish Guide
The Longhorn sculpin (Myoxocephalus octodecemspinosus) is a saltwater fish of the family Cottidae that grows up to 46 cm.
Northwest Atlantic along the east coast of Canada and the northeastern USA, over sandy, muddy and rocky bottoms of cold coastal water.
Description
The longhorn sculpin is a bottom fish of the family Cottidae (sculpins) reaching about 46 cm. The large, broad head is armoured and bears strikingly long, sharp spines on the gill cover, from which the species takes its name. The brown, marbled body gives good camouflage on the bottom and can change colour quickly. The species lives over sand, mud and rock bottoms of cold coastal water along the east coast of Canada and the northeastern USA. As an ambush predator it preys on crabs, shrimps, crustaceans, worms and small fish. It is often caught as bycatch and can make grunting sounds with its swim bladder. The sharp head spines call for careful handling.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longhorn sculpin?
The Longhorn sculpin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bottom fish with a large, armoured head and very long, sharp opercular spines; well camouflaged and able to change colour.
Where does the Longhorn sculpin live?
The Longhorn sculpin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Northwest Atlantic along the east coast of Canada and the northeastern USA, over sandy, muddy and rocky bottoms of cold coastal water.
How big does the Longhorn sculpin get?
The Longhorn sculpin grows to a maximum of about 46 cm.
Is the Longhorn sculpin dangerous to humans?
The Longhorn sculpin can cause injury; handle it with care. The head bears long, sharp spines on the gill cover that can cause cuts or punctures; grip a caught animal carefully behind the head.
Is the Longhorn sculpin edible?
The Longhorn 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 Longhorn sculpin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Longhorn sculpin is one of 12,519 species in the app.