Fin's Fish Guide
The Shore rockling (Gaidropsarus mediterraneus) is a saltwater fish of the family Lotidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Mediterranean Sea, the Black Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, on shallow rocky shores.
Description
The shore rockling is a dark-brown cod relative of the family Lotidae reaching about 50 cm. The elongate body bears three barbels: two on the snout and one on the chin. Like related rocklings it has a peculiar first dorsal fin, consisting of a row of fine, constantly vibrating rays in a groove, followed by a long second dorsal fin. The species lives on shallow rocky shores and in tide pools of the Mediterranean, the Black Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, sheltering among stones and weeds. Mainly at night it hunts small crustaceans, worms and small fish. Because of its small size it has no fishery importance, but it is a common inhabitant of the rocky shore.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shore rockling?
The Shore rockling has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Dark brown cod relative with three barbels (two on the snout, one on the chin) and a first dorsal fin of fine, vibrating rays in a groove.
Where does the Shore rockling live?
The Shore rockling lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Mediterranean Sea, the Black Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, on shallow rocky shores.
How big does the Shore rockling get?
The Shore rockling grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Shore rockling dangerous to humans?
No, the Shore rockling is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Shore rockling edible?
The Shore rockling is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Shore rockling and live in the same waters.
Want the complete picture on the Shore rockling?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shore 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 Gaidropsarus
More from the family Lotidae
Want the complete picture on the Shore rockling?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shore rockling is one of 12,519 species in the app.