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Montagu's sea snail

Montagu's sea snail by Paul Naylor

Montagu’s sea snail

Although, commonly referred to as a ‘sea snail,’ this species in fact belongs to the fish family!

Scientific name

Liparis montagui

When to see

April - October.

Species information

Statistics

Up to 12cm long, usually much smaller.
Unknown.

About

Montagu’s sea snails often feed on small crustaceans and use a modified pelvic fin or ‘sucker’ to cling rocks and seaweed. Which is where it is often found!

How to identify

This small fish resembles a large tadpole, with a large head and tapering tail, which can often be seen curled up under its chin. Colour is usually olive brown.

Distribution

Found around the British Isles and North Sea.

Did you know?

This fish has no scales, but instead has skin, covered in tiny prickles!