Inland Riffle Sculpin

Riffle sculpin (Cottus gulosus) are found on the West Coast from California to Washington. The common name of this species is in reference to their preferred habitat, as they are frequently found in riffles, typically under large wood and rocks. This species is typically a brown-tan color with a mottled pattern and a large black marking near the rear of their first dorsal fin. Riffle sculpin primarily consume benthic invertebrates and mainly feed at night. Taxonomically, the name Cottus gulosus was assigned to all riffle sculpin, however, recent phylogenetic studies have helped to clarify the diversity and relationships between local populations of riffle sculpin.

Fun fact: Genetic evidence suggests that there may be four species or subspecies of riffle sculpin.