Clinocottus globiceps (Girard, 1858)
Mosshead sculpin
photo by JJPhoto

Family:  Cottidae (Sculpins)
Max. size:  19 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  demersal; marine; depth range - 0 m, non-migratory
Distribution:  Eastern Pacific: Kodiak Island, Alaska to Gaviota, southern California, USA.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 9-10; Dorsal soft rays (total): 15-17; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 10-12. Caudal fin rounded. Lower 8 pectoral rays thickened and 6 or 7 excised.
Biology:  A resident intertidal species with homing behavior (Ref. 32612). Commonly found in tide pools and shallow rocky areas, often in strong surf (Ref. 2850). Can leave tide pools if aquatic conditions become inhospitable (Ref. 31184). Sometimes encountered resting on rocks out of water, but usually found under rocks or among seaweeds (Ref. 2850). Breathes air when out of water (Ref. 31184).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 04 February 2009 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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