The Arctic staghorn sculpin (Gymnocanthus tricuspis) is a saltwater fish of the family Cottidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The Arctic staghorn sculpin is a sculpin from the Arctic, ranging from the Gulf of St. Lawrence through Greenland and Iceland to the Barents Sea. It grows to about 30 cm and has a large, broad head merging into a rearward-tapering body; the back is dark with two blackish-brown flank bands and the belly is light. As a bottom-dweller the fish lives on sand and sand-mud bottoms to over 500 metres depth in very cold water, into which it often burrows. It feeds on amphipods and polychaete worms. The fish is harmless to humans and has not been evaluated by the IUCN (NE).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Arctic staghorn sculpin?
The Arctic staghorn sculpin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Arctic staghorn sculpin live?
The Arctic staghorn sculpin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Arctic staghorn sculpin get?
The Arctic staghorn sculpin grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Arctic staghorn sculpin dangerous to humans?
No, the Arctic staghorn sculpin is harmless to humans.
Is the Arctic staghorn sculpin edible?
The Arctic staghorn sculpin is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gymnocanthus
More from the family Cottidae
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