Family RhamphocottidaeGrunt Sculpin Selected Characters: Head large with elongate snout; body stocky, covered with prickles; lower pectoral rays free of membrane. This is a monotypic family of the northern Pacific, formerly included in the Cottidae. The grunt sculpin reaches a maximum length of about 8 cm. It is primarily a coastal species most often found in shallow water along rocky beaches, but it has been taken at depths up to nearly 200 m. The common name is inspired by the grunting noise this fish makes when removed from water. Grunt sculpin hide in small shelters, including empty giant barnacle casings and even discarded cans and bottles. When they venture out they often "crawl" along the bottom using their long pectoral fin rays. Aquarium observations have revealed the mating habits of this species: the aggressive female chases a male until he is cornered among the rocks, and keeps him trapped while she lays her eggs. Grunt sculpin feed on crustaceans, fish larvae, and zooplankton. This neat little fish is widespread and moderately common in Puget Sound, but can be elusive. Puget Sound Species Rhamphocottus richardsoni Grunt Sculpin |