Meet our September Fish of the Month, the Rock Gunnel, Pholis gunnellus!
Survey Regions: The Rock Gunnel is found in the temperate and cold waters of the Northeast US and Canada region. Click here to view the REEF database sightings report for this species.
Size: They grow to between 5 to 8 inches.
Identifying Features: Rock Gunnels can vary in color, from yellow-green, to brown, or red. They have a row of pale-ringed dark spots running along their dorsal fin. They may be mistaken for eels due to their flattened, elongated body, but unlike eels they have two small pectoral fins.
Fun Facts: Rock Gunnels live mostly in the intertidal zone, where they shelter among rocks and algae. They can survive outside of the water due to their slimy skin, which prevents them from drying out and helps them slither into small crevices. They eat small crustaceans, worms, and molluscs.
Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for our next Fish of the Month.
Photo by Amy Maurer.