Longfin Sculpin (Jordania zonope)

Also known as the "bandeye sculpin", this very colorful, but elusive fish reminds me of the tropical Mandarin Fish because of the brilliant orange and green sinuous bands behind the eye of the fish.  Although this fish is actually rather common at depths less then 70', it is constantly flitting about in fits and starts, and its small size (less than 6 inches) makes it less noticed by local divers.

Divers paying attention to the quick movements of this fish as it darts from crevice to cover will be rewarded as it momentarily rests on its pectoral fins, allowing close inspection of the brilliant colors. 

This species feeds primarily upon small shrimps and crabs.  Prior to the spawning season (December-January), the males move into the spawning zone in fresh water or brackish water and are later joined by the females.  The female sculpin chases a male until she traps him in a crevice. She keeps him there until she lays her eggs.  A mature male then fertilizes the eggs.

These photos are taken in the San Juan Islands, where these fish are encountered in large numbers on every dive.