Brown Seaweed Sculpin

Clinocottus globiceps

The brown seaweed sculpin (Clinocottus globiceps), also known as the mosshead sculpin, is a small marine sculpin in the family Cottidae. Adults reach about 19 cm with a large, rounded head, mottled brown to greenish coloration, and bushy cirri (small fleshy projections) on the head that resemble seaweed. This species can change color to match surrounding algae, ranging from brown to green to reddish. They inhabit rocky intertidal and shallow subtidal zones at depths of 0-18 meters from Kodiak Island, Alaska, to central California. Mosshead sculpins are masters of camouflage, sitting motionless among algae-covered rocks where they blend perfectly with their surroundings. They feed on small crabs, amphipods, isopods, and other invertebrates. Their ability to breathe air and tolerate exposure at low tide allows them to exploit intertidal habitats. Finding one requires careful observation, as their camouflage is remarkably effective.