Fin's Fish Guide
The Northern rockling (Ciliata septentrionalis) is a saltwater fish of the family Lotidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Northeast Atlantic and the North Sea, on rocky and stony bottoms of shallow coastal water, often among seaweeds and in tide pools.
Description
The northern rockling is a small cod relative of the family Lotidae reaching about 20 cm. Around the mouth it carries five barbels — two pairs on the snout and one on the chin — with which it searches the bottom by touch; this distinguishes it from rocklings with three barbels. The first dorsal fin consists of a low row of fine, thread-like rays in a groove, the second is long and low. The brownish body blends well among weeds and stones. The species lives on rocky and stony bottoms of shallow coastal water of the north-eastern Atlantic and the North Sea, often in tide pools. Mainly at night it hunts small crustaceans, worms and small fish. Because of its small size it has no fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Northern rockling?
The Northern rockling has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Cod-like rockling with five barbels around the mouth; the first dorsal fin is a low row of fine thread-like rays in a groove.
Where does the Northern rockling live?
The Northern rockling lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Northeast Atlantic and the North Sea, on rocky and stony bottoms of shallow coastal water, often among seaweeds and in tide pools.
How big does the Northern rockling get?
The Northern rockling grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Northern rockling dangerous to humans?
No, the Northern rockling is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Northern rockling edible?
The Northern rockling is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Northern rockling and live in the same waters.
Want the complete picture on the Northern rockling?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Northern rockling is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ciliata
More from the family Lotidae
Want the complete picture on the Northern rockling?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Northern rockling is one of 12,519 species in the app.