Fin's Fish Guide
The Little dragon sculpin (Blepsias cirrhosus) is a saltwater fish of the family Hemitripteridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The silverspotted sculpin is a sculpin of the family Hemitripteridae from the North Pacific, from California to Alaska and Japan. The species reaches about 20 cm and has a laterally compressed body with thread-like skin flaps (cirri) that give it camouflage among seaweeds. It inhabits the intertidal and shallow subtidal zones to about 37 m deep, often among algae. The diet consists of small crustaceans and invertebrates. Notable is its reproduction: the species injects its eggs into the tissue near the cavity of a sponge, which serves as a protected spawning bed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Little dragon sculpin?
The Little dragon sculpin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Small skin flaps (cirri) for camouflage among seaweeds; lays its eggs in the tissue of a sponge.
Where does the Little dragon sculpin live?
The Little dragon sculpin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North Pacific, from California to Alaska and Japan.
How big does the Little dragon sculpin get?
The Little dragon sculpin grows to a maximum of about 20 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Little dragon sculpin dangerous to humans?
No, the Little dragon sculpin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Little dragon sculpin edible?
The Little dragon 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 Blepsias
More from the family Hemitripteridae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Little dragon sculpin is one of 12,519 species in the app.