Identification
The shorthorn sculpin is a stocky, broad-headed bottom fish of 15 to 30 cm with a large, spiny head covered in thorns and bumps. Large, fan-shaped pectoral fins. Color is variable: brown, green, or red with dark mottling. Spawning males' bellies turn orange to red.
Behavior & ecology
Lives on hard substrates with rocks, shells, and seaweed in shallow coastal waters. An ambush predator waiting motionless for passing prey (shrimp, crabs, small fish). The head spines are not venomous.
In the Netherlands
Common along the entire Dutch coast, Wadden Sea, and Zeeland waters. A familiar sight in tidal pools.
