Enophrys bison (Girard, 1854)

Dorsal and Anal Fins

Enophrys bison, commonly known as the buffalo sculpin, has two dorsal fins supported by 7 to 9 spines and 10 to 13 soft rays, while its anal fin holds 8 or 9 soft rays.

Pelvic and Caudal Fins

Its pelvic fins are small, and its caudal fin is rounded.

Maximum Length

This species reaches a maximum published total length of 37 cm, or 15 inches.

Coloration

It is well-camouflaged with a mottled color pattern that ranges from pink and green to brown, with dark saddle-shaped patches running along its back.

Preopercular Spine

A long, straight preopercular spine projects out from each cheek.

Lateral Line and Snout

Its lateral line is formed from prominent raised plates, and its snout is short and blunt.

Distribution Range

This fish species is found in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from Kodiak Island, Alaska, to Monterey Bay, California, USA.

Habitat

It typically lives in rocky or sandy reef environments, where it can camouflage among rocks and seaweed.

Depth Range

Buffalo sculpins most commonly live at depths down to 20 m, or 66 ft, though the deepest individual ever recorded was found at 220 m, or 720 ft.