This species of fish can sometimes be confused with eels due to their long, eel-shaped body, but they have very prominent barbels (the appendages pointing out of their face).

Behaviour

This is a large rocky shore fish with three ‘barbels’ on its face (one above each nostril and one on the lower jaw) – these are sensory organs that some types of fish use to search for food. They live in rocks, feeding on worms and crustaceans.

Size

Up to 25 cm Length.

Status

Common.

Distribution

There are a few records on the west coast of Scotland, the Outer Hebrides and Orkney!

When to see

April-October

Facts

• Rocklings are usually found under large rocks on the lower shore, stranded out of the water. They are able to stay alive by staying in the dark and damp, keeping a moist coating around their skin!