Science Name: | Tautogolabrus adspersus |
Other Names: | cunner, bergall |
World Record: | 1 lb. 9 oz. |
Size
Cunners grow to about ten to twelve inches in length.
Range
This is a Northern fish, found from Canada to New Jersey.
Habitat
Although it is strictly a shallow water fish, it may be found on nearly all
types of bottoms. Rocks and pilings are especially favored. Like most rock
dwelling fish, the cunner swims with its pectoral (side) fins rather than the
tail. This allows the fish to easilymanuver among the cracks and crevices of the
rocks.
Food
The cunner is an omnivore. It uses its sharp teeth and strong jaws to feed on
shellfish, algae, crabs and nearly any other plant or animal growing on the
bottom.
Importance
This is an extremely common fish but is not used commercially. It is refered to
by anglers as the “choggie”, notorious for stealing bait of fishing hooks.
In the Aquarium
The cunner does well in captivity. It accepts all foods and is not aggressive
towards other fish. It tends to be quite shy, however, venturing out into the
open only to feed.