Clinocottus globiceps

Clinocottus globiceps
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Subphylum:	Vertebrata
Superclass:	Osteichthyes
Class:	Actinopterygii
Subclass:	Neopterygii
Infraclass:	Teleostei
Superorder:	Acanthopterygii
Order:	Scorpaeniformes
Superfamily:	Cottoidea
Family:	Cottidae
Genus:	Clinocottus
Species:	C. globiceps
Binomial name
Clinocottus globiceps

Clinocottus globiceps is a species of fish in the family Cottidae which is also known as mosshead sculpin, globe-headed sculpin, blennicottus globiceps or oligocottus globiceps.

C. globiceps is a resident ((non-migratory) intertidal species which exhibits homing behavior. It generally inhabits tidal pools and shallow rocky areas, often in strong surf. C. globiceps can leave a tidal pools if conditions become inhospitable, since it can also breathe air. It sometimes rests on rocks out of water, but usually under rocks or among seaweed. C. globiceps is most commonly found in the eastern Pacific from Kodiak Island (Alaska) to Gaviota (southern California). This cnidaria prefers a temperate climate from latitude 60°N. to 32°N. and is usually in a marine, demersal environment.

The species is harmless to most humans, and is rated on the IUCN Red List as "least concern." Other species in the same genus include: Clinocuttus acuticeps, Clinocottus analis and Clinocottus embryum.

Characteristics

Body part	Average number/length
Dorsal spines (total)	9–10
Dorsal soft rays (total)	15–17
Anal spines	0
Anal soft rays	10–12
Maximum length	19 cm
Caudal Fin	Rounded
Pectoral rays	Lower eight when thickened, six or seven excised.

External links

• Book references
• Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS) report