Rosy Sculpin

Oligocottus rubellio

The rosy sculpin is a small marine fish found along the northeastern Pacific coast, from Fort Bragg in California to northern Baja California. It is easily recognizable by its smooth, scaleless body and distinctive coloration, ranging from reddish-brown to pink or lavender on the upper body, with a greenish to brown lower body. Dark saddle-like blotches adorn its back, while pale spots line its flanks, and dark bars radiate from its eyes. The dorsal fin features 7 to 9 spines and 13 to 17 soft rays, while the anal fin is supported by 10 to 14 soft rays. This species can grow up to 10 cm in length. Rosy sculpins inhabit rocky intertidal and subtidal zones, typically found at depths up to 34 meters. They are demersal fish, meaning they live and feed on or near the sea floor. Their diet primarily consists of polychaetes and amphipods, with larger individuals preying on shrimp and small crabs. Observing a rosy sculpin during a dive can be a unique experience, as they are uncommon and tend to blend into their rocky surroundings. Divers encountering a rosy sculpin should appreciate the opportunity to observe this cryptic species in its natural habitat.