Fin's Fish Guide
The Paiute sculpin (Cottus beldingii) is a freshwater fish of the family Cottidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The Paiute sculpin is a small sculpin from fresh water of western North America, in the Great Basin and surrounding drainages. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a stocky, scaleless body with a broad, flat head and large pectoral fins on which it props itself on the bottom. As a bottom-dweller it shelters by day under stones in cool, clear streams and hunts insect larvae and small crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Paiute sculpin?
The Paiute sculpin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Broad flat head and large pectoral fins; bottom-sheltering stream sculpin
Where does the Paiute sculpin live?
The Paiute sculpin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western North America
How big does the Paiute sculpin get?
The Paiute sculpin grows to a maximum of about 13 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Paiute sculpin dangerous to humans?
No, the Paiute sculpin is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Paiute sculpin edible?
The Paiute sculpin is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cottus
More from the family Cottidae
Want the complete picture on the Paiute sculpin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Paiute sculpin is one of 12,519 species in the app.