PYGMY SCULPIN Cottus pygmaeus (Williams, 1968) 



Order: PERCIFORMES Family: COTTIDAE 



Distinguishing characteristics : A dark-colored sculpin attaining a maximum total length 

 of 1 3/4 inches. Spinous and soft dorsal fin portions broadly joined. Lateral line 

 incomplete with 20 to 24 pores . 



Present distribution : Known only from Coldwater Spring and effluent 5.7 miles west 

 of Anniston, Calhoun County, Alabama (Coosa River drainage). 



Former distribution: Probably occurred farther downstream in Coldwater Creek, 

 limited presently to above confluence with polluted tributary about 500 feet below 

 spring . 



Status : Vulnerable . Could be exterminated if habitat altered through further impound- 

 ment or vegetation control measures . 



Estimated numbers : About 1 , 000 . 



Fecundity : Breeds at least from May through September, probably spawns all year. 

 Total ovarian eggs number 30 to 43. 



Reasons for decline : Pollution in Coldwater Creek . 



Protective measures already taken : Coldwater Spring is the municipal water supply for 

 Anniston, Alabama, and is fenced against intruders. 



Measures proposed : Advise Anniston water supply officials of uniqueness of the 

 species . Determine vulnerability to vegetation control measures . Monitor water supply 

 development plans for Coldwater spring. 



Number in captivity : None at present . 



Culture potential in captivity : Difficult to maintain. Twenty specimens were kept for 

 several months in a constant-temperature stream aquarium at Auburn University . They 

 could not be trained to accept any but living food. Spawning occurred, but the eggs were 

 infertile. All succumbed apparently to changing water quality. 



Remarks : Aquatic vegetation control and enclosure or further impoundment are the chief 

 threats to well-being. Israeli carp introduced to browse on vegetation appear to have 

 left the spring . Growing demand for water in Anniston already uses about half of 

 average spring flow . Data supplied by Dr . John S . Ramsey . 



Reference : 



Williams, J. D, 1968. A new species of sculpin, Cottus pygmaeus , from a spring 

 in the Alabama River basin. Copeia, 1968 (2): 334-342. 



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