Species · GBIF taxon 2333785
Shorthorn Sculpin
Myoxocephalus scorpiusAlso known as Bull-rout, Short-Spined Sea Scorpion, Father-Lasher, Daddy Sculpin
Shorthorn sculpins are masters of benthic camouflage, blending seamlessly into rocky bottoms, kelp beds, and muddy estuaries across the North Atlantic and Arctic seas. These solitary ambush predators flare their wide pectoral fins and expand their spiny gill covers when threatened or while engulfing prey. During winter spawning, males construct nest sites among rocks and aggressively guard the egg masses until they hatch.
MarineBottom-DwellerCamouflaged
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Crabs
- Shrimp
- Small fish
Predators
- Halibut
- Atlantic cod
- Seals
ThreatsCoastal pollution, warming ocean temperatures, habitat loss
HabitatsRocky reefs, kelp forests, estuaries, shallow coastal waters
Life span6–10 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- OrderScorpaeniformes
- FamilyCottidae
- GenusMyoxocephalus
- SpeciesMyoxocephalus scorpius
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Sharp head spines can cause painful punctures if handled directly.
Responsible observation
- Location: Scan rocky crevices and kelp fronds in low tide pools or near dock pilings.
- Handling: Use heavy gloves or net mesh to avoid the sharp preopercular spines on the head.
Image unavailableDistant Kin 
Close Relative Wikimedia Commons / Public domain · cc0Close Relative
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