There are a few species of rockling, two of the most commonly seen being the shore and five-bearded rocklings. Both species can grow large for rocky shore fish. They are often confused with eels or other species, as they have slippery black skin, a long dorsal fin and barbels sticking out of their faces.
How to identify
Body colour is dark brown to black, with three face barbels – one below the chin and two above the top lip.
Distribution
Common around South West Britain.
Did you know?
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, allowing them to keep a moist coating around their skin!
