The Virtual Aquarium of Virginia Tech--Sculpins

Clinch Sculpin, Cottus sp.

 
Physical Description: 
·	Large broad head, large terminal mouth
·	Eye is high on head
·	Short snout
·	Chin usually unmottled
·	Anteriorly rounded body, compressed posteriorly
·	First dorsal fin has a short base, second has a long base
·	Large, fan-like pectoral fin
·	Dorsal fins not connected
·	Tail fin slightly rounded 
·	Body tan to olive-colored
·	Upper lip may be pale red
·	Bold, dark-colored saddles across the back

Similar species: 
·	Banded sculpin (Cottus carolinae)
·	Black sculpin (Cottus baileyi)

Mean body size:
·	Adults are 50-80 mm standard length 

Habitat:
·	Large gravel, rubble, and boulders, avoids heavily silted areas 

Distribution in VA:
·	Endemic to the upper Clinch system in the Tennessee drainage
	
Food Habits:  
·	Aquatic insect larvae

Reproductive Habits: 
·	Mature by age 2
·	Spawning occurs February to March at 7.8-14.4°C
·	Males create cavities under rocks
·	Position their bodies so that they are on their backs under the rocks when the gametes are released
·	Fecundity is 73-312 eggs per female

Population Status, Economic, or Ecological Importance: 
·	May be a candidate for conservation status because of its restricted range, but the populations are doing well

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

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