Artedius
Artedius is a genus of fish in the family Cottidae, commonly known as sculpins. They are benthic fish, meaning they live on the ocean floor, and are found in the northern Pacific Ocean. They are characterized by their relatively small size, typically less than 30 centimeters in length, and their distinctive spiny dorsal fin.
Common Names
Species within the genus Artedius are commonly referred to as "sculpins," with specific names varying depending on the species. Some common names include:
- Tidepool sculpin
- Blackeye sculpin
- Cabezon sculpin
Characteristics
Artedius species share several common characteristics:
- Small size: Typically less than 30 centimeters in length.
- Spiny dorsal fin: A distinctive feature, with multiple sharp spines.
- Benthic lifestyle: Found living on the ocean floor.
- Carnivorous diet: Primarily feeding on invertebrates and smaller fish.
Environments
Artedius species are found in a variety of habitats within the northern Pacific Ocean, including:
- Rocky shores and tidepools
- Seaweed beds
- Sand and gravel bottoms
- Depths ranging from the intertidal zone to depths of several hundred meters.