Jordania zonope Starks, 1895

Nomenclature and Body Shape

The longfin sculpin, whose scientific name is Jordania zonope Starks, 1895, has a long, slender body, a long anal fin, and two separate dorsal fins.

Fin Ray Counts

Its dorsal fins hold 17 to 18 spines and 15 to 17 soft rays, while its anal fin has 22 to 24 soft rays and no spines.

Base Body Coloration

Its body is overall olive-green, marked with sinuous red bands across the back.

Head Markings

Three stripes run below the eye on its head.

Anal Fin Coloration

Its long, yellow-orange anal fin creates a sharp contrast against the color of its body.

Nocturnal Color Change Ability

This species is able to change color at night, darkening its body to improve its camouflage.

Maximum Recorded Size

It reaches a maximum total length of 15 centimeters, which equals 5.9 inches.

Geographic Distribution

The longfin sculpin is distributed in the eastern North Pacific Ocean, ranging from Baranof Island in southeastern Alaska to Point Lobos in central California.

Habitat and Depth Range

It is a demersal fish that lives at depths between 2 meters and 38 meters, or 6 feet 7 inches and 124 feet 8 inches, in rocky habitats and among kelp.