Not sure what I can say about this fish…a lumpsucker (Lethotremus awae) or dango-uo (ダンゴウオ) in Japanese…except that it’s extraordinarily cute and exceedingly small. This one is just under one centimetre long.
There was a major swell, the fish was unusually active and in an awkward place, and it was dark…so this isn’t the best photo, but it’s the first one I’ve ever seen (I’ve wanted to see one for a long time), so I’m happy.
Too cute this one. So squishable!
Noooooo! Don’t squish it!
Cool fish
It’s adorable beyond description. Just need to find one again under better circumstances so I can get a better photo.
That lumpfish is SO cute!!! It looks like it’s camouflaged by its surroundings. ~Alexa
Hi Alexa,
It was definitely camouflaged. Without a light on it, the fish was practically invisibleS
[...] Embarrassing Satoshi and Issei in front of their friends was almost as much fun as finding a lumpsucker for the first [...]
loooooove it! my dream to c one! so jealous now T.T
All you need is a drysuit and come here between Jan-April next year!
ieie i know the time and temp >.< that’s why i need a bit more time to make up my mind to go into that cold water …. dangouo mitai mitai ;D
Hi Tony,
You’ve pretty well inspired me to stop in next year after some tropical diving in Raja Empat… Its gonna be cold LOL
I checked out the Sea Front Diving website… does anyone speak a little bit of English? My Japanese is… limited!
Thanks for all of the great Izu photos!!
Yes, they speak a bit of English.
Let me know your dates and preferences, and I can convey the information to them. If I’m around in Japan, I’ll join you! I’m really loving this temperate-water stuff.
This is precious…. just too cute!
I’m really tempted to brave the frigid Izu waters next season to see one.