Fin's Fish Guide
The Shortspine combfish (Zaniolepis frenata) is a saltwater fish of the family Hexagrammidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The shortspine combfish is a bottom fish of the family Hexagrammidae from the eastern Pacific, from southern Oregon to Baja California. The species reaches about 25 cm and has an elongate, yellow-brown body covered with rough, comb-like scales, to which the family name refers. It lives mainly on mud bottoms at depths of about 55 to 244 m. Polychaete worms are the main food, but crustaceans such as euphausiids and amphipods and fish eggs have also been found in the stomach. Owing to its inconspicuous life on soft bottoms the species is little noticed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shortspine combfish?
The Shortspine combfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Rough, comb-like scales; bottom-dweller of muddy bottoms.
Where does the Shortspine combfish live?
The Shortspine combfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific, from southern Oregon to Baja California.
How big does the Shortspine combfish get?
The Shortspine combfish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Shortspine combfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Shortspine combfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Shortspine combfish edible?
The Shortspine combfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Shortspine combfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shortspine combfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Zaniolepis
More from the family Hexagrammidae
Want the complete picture on the Shortspine combfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shortspine combfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.