Taxonomy

Animalia

Chordata

Actinopterygii

Scorpaeniformes

R. Rhamphocottus richardsonii

Grunt Sculpin

Richardson's Beak-cottage

The grunt sculpin or grunt-fish (Rhamphocottus richardsonii) is a small fish mainly found in the eastern Pacific Ocean. The grunt sculpin generally remains close to shore and is often found in empty giant barnacle shells. It was first identified by Albert Günther in 1874 and was named in honor of naturalist John Richardson. The common name comes from reports that the fish vibrate or "grunt" when held. Its defining feature is its tendency to “hop” along the ocean floor on its orange fins. The short, stout body of the grunt sculpin has a long, small mouth which is adapted for eating smaller prey.

Rhamphocottidae. Retrieved May, 08 2021, from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grunt_sculpin.