Fin's Fish Guide
The Darter sculpin (Radulinus asprellus) is a saltwater fish of the family Cottidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The darter sculpin is a small sculpin (Cottidae) from the eastern North Pacific, from Alaska to California. The species reaches about 15 cm and, unlike many stocky sculpins, has a strikingly slender, elongate body. It lives demersally on soft sand and mud bottoms and is regularly taken as bycatch in shrimp trawls. The diet consists of small bottom invertebrates. Owing to its small size and inconspicuous habits the species has no direct fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Darter sculpin?
The Darter sculpin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Strikingly slender, elongated body, unlike most stocky sculpins.
Where does the Darter sculpin live?
The Darter sculpin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern North Pacific, from Alaska to California.
How big does the Darter sculpin get?
The Darter sculpin grows to a maximum of about 15 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Darter sculpin dangerous to humans?
No, the Darter sculpin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Darter sculpin edible?
The Darter sculpin is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
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 Darter sculpin is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone