Fin's Fish Guide
The Chabot bullhead (Cottus perifretum) is a freshwater fish of the family Cottidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Western Europe, from central France to the middle Rhine in Germany, and southern and central England.
Description
The Chabot bullhead is a small bottom fish of the family Cottidae reaching about 13 cm. It has a broad, flattened head with a large mouth, large pectoral fins, separate pelvic fins and a scaleless, brown-grey mottled skin. It was only described as a separate species in 2005; before that every bullhead in western Europe counted as Cottus gobio. In the Netherlands it occurs in almost every province, in rivers, streams, lakes, canals and ditches, but everywhere in low numbers. By day it hides under stones; at night it eats amphipods, water lice, midge larvae and fish eggs. The male guards the eggs.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chabot bullhead?
The Chabot bullhead has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bottom fish with a broad, flat head, large mouth, separate pelvic fins and scaleless skin; young fish have rough prickles on back and flanks, unlike the Rhine sculpin.
Where does the Chabot bullhead live?
The Chabot bullhead lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Europe, from central France to the middle Rhine in Germany, and southern and central England.
How big does the Chabot bullhead get?
The Chabot bullhead grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Chabot bullhead dangerous to humans?
No, the Chabot bullhead is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Chabot bullhead edible?
The Chabot bullhead is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Chabot bullhead and live in the same waters.
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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 Chabot bullhead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chabot bullhead is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone