Prickly Sculpin (Cottus asper)
Identification: Anterior part of body heaviest. Colour is olive to dark brown or grey above and on sides, yellowish to white below. First dorsal fin has a distinct black spot, dorsal surface and sides may also be marked with black mottling or bands. Anal fin is longer than the head length.
Life History: Spawning usually occurs from spring to early summer, can occur in early February in southern latitudes. Inland populations usually spawn later than coastal ones. Spawning usually occurs in freshwater, but can occur in brackish water. Spawning sites are usually over a boulder, cobble, or flat rock bottom, with moderate current flow. Fecundity ranges from 700-4000 eggs per female. Adults are found in streams, lakes and estuaries
Feeding: Mostly on aquatic insect larvae and other benthic invertebrates. Also planktonic crustaceans, small fish, fish eggs.
References:
Scott, W and Crossman, E. 1973. Freshwater Fishes of Canada. Fisheries Research Board of Canada. Bulletin 184. Ottawa, Ontario.
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