Other names: Blue perch, Bergall, Chogset, Choggie, Conner
The cunner, Tautogolabrus adspersus, is a small, temperate marine fish found in the western Atlantic from Newfoundland to the Chesapeake Bay. Recognizable by its mottled brown and green coloration, it prefers rocky and vegetated habitats. Cunners are often caught by anglers and kept in aquariums due to their hardiness and adaptability.
Other names
Blue perch, Bergall, Chogset, Choggie, Conner
Length
~16" (max 44)
Weight
~1" (max 2)
Water
Salt
Depth
10-128 ft
Corn
Worms-
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Cunners are commonly found in shallow, inshore waters with rocky bottoms or around structures like wharves and wrecks
They prefer habitats with ample hiding spots such as seaweed beds and rocky crevices
Their diet consists of small crustaceans, mollusks, and other invertebrates, making them opportunistic feeders
During winter, cunners become inactive and hide under rocks or other structures in shallow waters
Cunners are oviparous, with distinct pairing during the breeding season
Spawning occurs in the spring and summer, with eggs laid in the water column
Larvae are planktonic and drift with currents until they settle in suitable habitats
Juveniles seek shelter in vegetated areas and around structures, gradually moving to adult habitats as they grow
