Fin's Fish Guide
The Shorthead sculpin (Cottus confusus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cottidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The shorthead sculpin is a small sculpin from fresh water of western North America. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a stocky, scaleless, brown-mottled body with a short, broad 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 rivers and hunts insect larvae and small crustaceans. The fish is sensitive to turbidity. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shorthead sculpin?
The Shorthead sculpin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Short broad head and large pectoral fins; bottom-hiding stream bullhead
Where does the Shorthead sculpin live?
The Shorthead sculpin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western North America
How big does the Shorthead sculpin get?
The Shorthead sculpin grows to a maximum of about 15 cm. On average the species is around 9 cm.
Is the Shorthead sculpin dangerous to humans?
No, the Shorthead 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 Shorthead sculpin edible?
The Shorthead sculpin is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shorthead sculpin is one of 12,519 species in the app.