The Roughback Sculpin – Chitonotus pugetensis is a species of fish found in the northeastern Pacific Ocean. This fish is characterized by its distinct rough texture and its relatively large size.
Description & Characteristics
The Roughback Sculpin – Chitonotus pugetensis is a relatively large sculpin, with adults reaching a maximum size of 23.0 cm. This fish is easily identifiable due to its rough, bony skin. Its coloration ranges from light brown to reddish-brown, often with dark blotches or streaks. The Roughback Sculpin – Chitonotus pugetensis possesses large pectoral fins and a rounded snout, contributing to its unique appearance.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Roughback Sculpin – Chitonotus pugetensis is typically found in the northeastern Pacific Ocean. Its depth range spans from the surface down to 142.0 meters, encompassing a variety of marine zones. This species prefers rocky reefs, kelp forests, and sandy bottoms as its habitat.
Taxonomy
The species Chitonotus pugetensis belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Cottidae. This classification places it within the diverse group of bony fishes, specifically the perch-like fishes, and further into the sculpin family.
Feeding
The Roughback Sculpin – Chitonotus pugetensis is a carnivorous fish. Its diet consists mainly of crustaceans, including crustacean larvae, shrimp, and mysids. This species is also known to feed on zoobenthos, the organisms that inhabit the bottom of the ocean floor.
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