Slimy Snailfish

Liparis mucosus

The Slimy Snailfish, a member of the family Liparidae, is a small reef fish found in the Northeast Pacific. It inhabits coastal waters from Sitka, Alaska, down to southern British Columbia, Canada, and extends as far south as Baja California, Mexico. This species typically resides in marine environments at depths ranging from the intertidal zone to 15 meters, though it is not commonly found in tide pools. Divers may encounter this fish in subtropical waters, often near rocky substrates. Characterized by its elongated body, the Slimy Snailfish lacks dorsal spines but features 28 to 30 dorsal soft rays and 22 to 24 anal soft rays. Its dorsal fin is divided into two parts: the first is short, low, and rounded, while the second part has longer rays that nearly reach the caudal fin, which itself is narrow with a rounded end. The ventral lobe of the pectoral fins is distinct, with thick, exserted rays. These features help distinguish it from similar species. The Slimy Snailfish is harmless to humans and holds no interest for fisheries. As of now, its conservation status has not been evaluated by the IUCN.