Cool, deep waters over mud, gravelly or rocky bottoms/Arctic and North Atlantic Oceans
Size: 1 to 5" long • Weight: n/a
Meet the Atlantic Spiny Lumpsucker, a small fish with BIG personality. Lumpsuckers are sometimes called "living suction cups" because of their ability to stick to things. They’re a little… clingy.
At first glance, you might mistake the Atlantic Spiny Lumpsucker for a miniature beach ball. Despite their small size (usually no more than 3 inches long) and cute, round bodies, these little guys are fierce predators, using their spiky fins to anchor themselves to rocks and sneak up on unsuspecting prey. Lumpsuckers are also incredibly strong swimmers, generating enough suction with their mouths to latch on to rocks even in strong currents. They can also inflate themselves with water to make themselves even harder to dislodge. Did we mention they’re a little clingy?
Perhaps most surprising about the Atlantic Spiny Lumpsucker is their parenting style. Unlike most fish, male Lumpsuckers take on the role of primary caregiver, building nests and guarding their eggs until they hatch. And if that wasn't impressive enough, they'll even go so far as to blow bubbles around their eggs to protect them from predators!
Discover even more about the Atlantic Spiny Lumpsucker in the Canada’s Arctic gallery at the Vancouver Aquarium. Their adorable faces will stick with you long after your visit ends!
Types
The Canada’s Arctic exhibit tells the story of the changes experienced by the people, land and animals. It engages visitors with stories of the melting Arctic and its impact on people and its uniquely adapted animals.
Learn More
