The Virtual Aquarium of Virginia Tech--Sculpins

Holston Sculpin, Cottus sp.

 
Physical Description: 
ï¿½	Large broad head, large terminal mouth
ï¿½	Eye is high on head
ï¿½	Short snout
ï¿½	Chin slightly mottled or unmottled
ï¿½	Broad bands on the back
ï¿½	Anteriorly rounded body, compressed posteriorly
ï¿½	First dorsal fin has a short base, second has a long base
ï¿½	Slight spotting on fins
ï¿½	Large, fan-like pectoral fin
ï¿½	Dorsal fins slightly connected
ï¿½	Tail fin not rounded 
ï¿½	Body tan to olive-colored
ï¿½	First dorsal fin edge pale orange

Similar species: 
ï¿½	Banded sculpin (Cottus carolinae)
ï¿½	Black sculpin (Cottus baileyi)

Mean body size:
ï¿½	Adults are 65-80 mm standard length 

Habitat:
ï¿½	Clear streams of moderate to high-gradient
ï¿½	Varying temperatures 

Distribution in VA:
ï¿½	Upper Holston in the Tennessee drainage
	
Food Habits:  
ï¿½	Insect larvae and crayfish

Reproductive Habits: 
ï¿½	Mature by age 2
ï¿½	Spawning occurs November-December in water that is around 1-11ï¿½C
ï¿½	Probably the same spawning behavior as other sculpins
ï¿½	Fecundity is unknown

Population Status, Economic, or Ecological Importance: 
ï¿½	An undescribed species
ï¿½	Nuptial males have yet to be found

References:       

Jenkins, R.E and N.M. Burkhead. 1993. Freshwater Fishes of Virginia. American Fisheries Society, Bethesda, Maryland.

Mottled Sculpin

Black Sculpin

Slimy Sculpin

Bluestone Sculpin

Banded Sculpin

Potomac Sculpin

Holston Sculpin

Clinch Sculpin

Continue Browsing Families.....