Coralline Sculpin

Artedius corallinus

The Coralline Sculpin is a marine ray-finned fish found in the eastern North Pacific, ranging from Orcas Island in Washington to Isla San Martín in Baja California. This species is typically associated with rocky areas and can be found from the intertidal zone down to depths of 21 meters. Divers might encounter these fish hiding in cracks or under boulders, where they use their camouflaged coloration to blend in with their surroundings. The Coralline Sculpin has a distinctive appearance, with a large, wide, flattened head and a mouth that extends to the rear edge of its large eyes. Its upper body and head are dark gray to rufous, adorned with a pair of clear white bands on the head and a reddish-brown band in between. An obvious white spot is present at the base of the caudal peduncle. The fins are mostly transparent with brown spines and rays, and the pelvic fins are marked with brown barring. The species reaches a maximum length of 14 cm. In terms of diet, the Coralline Sculpin feeds on a variety of small marine organisms, including algae, amphipods, copepods, polychaetes, shrimps, and gastropods. They are oviparous, with external fertilization. While the IUCN has not evaluated the conservation status of this species, it is considered harmless to humans.