Fin's Fish Guide
The Nozawa's sculpin (Cottus nozawae) is a freshwater fish of the family Cottidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Japan; middle and upper reaches of cool, clear rivers with rocky bottom.
Description
Nozawa's sculpin is a small freshwater sculpin of the family Cottidae from Japan. The species grows to about 7 cm and has a stocky body with a broad, flattened head, a large mouth and no scales. It inhabits the middle and upper reaches of rivers with clear, cool, flowing water and a rocky bottom. As a small bottom predator it often lies motionless among the stones and seizes insect larvae, small crustaceans and small fishes. Sculpins lack a swim bladder and move over the bottom in short hops. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Nozawa's sculpin?
The Nozawa's sculpin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Broad, flattened head without scales; lacks a swim bladder and moves over the bottom in little hops.
Where does the Nozawa's sculpin live?
The Nozawa's sculpin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Japan; middle and upper reaches of cool, clear rivers with rocky bottom.
How big does the Nozawa's sculpin get?
The Nozawa's sculpin grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Nozawa's sculpin dangerous to humans?
No, the Nozawa's sculpin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Nozawa's sculpin edible?
The Nozawa's 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 Cottus
More from the family Cottidae
Want the complete picture on the Nozawa's sculpin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Nozawa's sculpin is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone