Taxonomy

Animalia

Chordata

Actinopterygii

Scorpaeniformes

Cottidae

Leptocottus armatus

Pacific Staghorn Sculpin

Armed Slender-Cottus

The Pacific staghorn sculpin, Leptocottus armatus, is a common sculpin (Cottidae) found in shallow coastal waters along the Pacific coast from Alaska to Baja California. The sole member of its genus, it is unusual for having spined antler-like projections on its gill covers; it can raise the projections as a defense mechanism.

Staghorn sculpins are slender fish, with a grayish olive above, pale creamy yellow sides, and a white belly. The first dorsal fin has 7 spines and usually a dark spot in the posterior half, while the second dorsal has 17 rays. The anal fin also has 17 rays, while the pelvic fins have four rays. The fins have barred patterns of varying prominence. They can reach a length of 46 cm.

Leptocottus armatus. Retrieved January, 01 2022, from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_staghorn_sculpin.