Lumpenus
Lumpenus is a genus of fish in the family Stichaeidae, commonly known as shorthorn sculpins or snake blennies. They are elongated, slender fish with a distinctive pointed head and a long, snake-like body. The genus Lumpenus is found in the North Atlantic Ocean, including the North Sea, and the North Pacific Ocean. These fish are generally found in shallow, coastal waters, often inhabiting rocky reefs, kelp forests, and muddy bottoms. They are benthic, meaning they live on the seabed.
Characteristics
Shorthorn sculpins are characterized by their long, slender bodies, which can reach lengths of up to 30 cm. They have a pointed head with a small mouth and a single dorsal fin that extends the length of their body. Their pelvic fins are small and located close to their pectoral fins. They have a distinctive lateral line that runs along the side of their body. Their color varies depending on the species and habitat, but they are typically brown or gray with darker markings.
Habitat and Distribution
Lumpenus species are found in both the North Atlantic and North Pacific oceans, with a distribution range that includes the North Sea and the coasts of Europe and North America. They prefer shallow, coastal waters, typically inhabiting rocky reefs, kelp forests, and muddy bottoms. Some species are also found in deeper water, down to depths of 100 meters. They are benthic fish, meaning they live on the seabed.
Diet and Feeding
Shorthorn sculpins are carnivorous fish that feed on a variety of small invertebrates, including crustaceans, polychaetes, and mollusks. They use their small mouths to pick up food from the seabed. Their diet may vary depending on their habitat and the availability of prey.
Reproduction
Lumpenus species are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. The females lay eggs in clusters on the seabed, which are then fertilized by the males. The eggs hatch into larvae, which then develop into juveniles. The details of their reproductive behavior are still being studied by scientists.
Species
The genus Lumpenus includes several recognized species, including:
- Lumpenus lampretaeformis (Arctic shanny)
- Lumpenus maculatus (Spotted shanny)
- Lumpenus medius (Atlantic shanny)
- Lumpenus sagitta (Arrow shanny)
- Lumpenus fabricii (Fabricius's shanny)