Fish ID @29 Strps Loch Long

[Diving Now]

Hi All,

I took a student in for his first OW dive at 29 steps on Friday. I had said that he should not expect to see great colourful beasties.

I felt a bit daft when I saw a red fish, about 8-10" long, very small mouth, what looked like a solid dorsal fin in a sort of hook shape, hiding in the tires holding the bouy to the south of the platform.

Did any one see it over the weekend, or have any idea what it might be?

[Dive Tramp]

Sounds like a Lumpsucker, in mating/breeding colours.

See here
http://www.finstrokes.com/pelagic/lumpsucker.html

[Tommo21uk]

yeah i agree with dive tramp seen one up st cats the other week and was also told a mate seen one at 29 steps they turn bright red and look after the eggs before turn back to a brown colour and hit the deeper water

[triplefin]

I seem to remember someone reporting one at finnart last year so it might be the same one has come back as the sites are so near each other.

[Dive Tramp]

Indeed Jane, it could be the same one as they appear to have a homing instinct like Salmon.

[Diving Now]

Yes thats the thing.

Lumpsucker. Well at least I'll know for next time, Thanks All.

[puddock]

def a lump sucker saw one yesterday at st cats 1 reef ;)

[scubamuppet]

I was at 29 steps yesterday and saw one, its a lumpsucker also a few butterfish around.