Smooth Lumpsucker
NameSmooth Lumpsucker
Scientific NameAptocyclus ventricosus
Common NamesSmooth Lumpsucker, Smooth Lumpfish, Pacific Lumpsucker
FamilyCyclopteridae
OriginNorth Pacific Ocean, Bering Sea, Sea of Okhotsk, Japan, Alaska, British Columbia
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)100
Max Size (Inches)15
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)32-45
pH Range7.8-8.4
Compatible SpeciesOther cold-water, non-aggressive marine invertebrates, Highly specialized cold-water fish (in public aquariums)
Description
The Smooth Lumpsucker is a unique, globular-bodied marine fish characterized by its smooth skin, lacking the bony tubercles found on other lumpfishes. It possesses a ventral suction disc, which it uses to attach to rocks and other surfaces in its cold, deep-water habitats. Primarily found in the North Pacific, this species is rarely kept in home aquariums due to its highly specialized care requirements for extremely cold and stable water conditions.
