Range and Identity
Clinocottus acuticeps ranges from the Bering Sea coast of Alaska toward central California. This coastal distribution is distinct from the inland ranges of many freshwater sculpins. Occasional entry into freshwater does not make every inland stream an expected habitat.
Habitat and Behavior
The fish commonly occupies rocky intertidal and subtidal areas, but also occurs over sand and among eelgrass or seaweed. It may leave a tide pool when aquatic conditions become unsuitable and can breathe air while exposed. That ability should not be interpreted as independence from a moist coastal environment.
Food and Life History
The compiled maximum is 6.4 centimeters total length, with 4.4 centimeters as a common reference. Egg laying is documented. Small invertebrates are suggested as prey in the summary, but that tentative diet is not presented as a fully established species-specific feeding list.
Field Note
Include tide state and whether the fish was submerged or exposed. Those details are particularly useful for a shore fish that can move between water and air.
All Lakes With Sharpnose Sculpin
Browse lakes and reservoirs with documented Sharpnose Sculpin records, listed alphabetically. Records do not establish current abundance or public access. Check the evidence and managing authority for the water you choose.
No published lakes are currently linked to this species in our confirmed records.