Fin's Fish Guide
The Black bass (Sebastes alutus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 53 cm.
Description
The Pacific ocean perch is a rockfish (Sebastidae) from the northern Pacific. The species grows to about 50 cm and has an elongate, bright-red body with a large, spiny head. It is abundant in deeper water well offshore; young fish are pelagic up to about three years. It grows slowly and can live long. It is viviparous, with planktonic larvae. As a bottom predator it feeds on crustaceans and small fishes. It is an important commercial species. The dorsal, pelvic and anal fin spines are venomous and give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black bass?
The Black bass has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Long-lived, slow-growing ovoviviparous redfish; important commercial species with venomous fin spines.
Where does the Black bass live?
The Black bass lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North Pacific; deep water far offshore.
How big does the Black bass get?
The Black bass grows to a maximum of about 53 cm.
Is the Black bass dangerous to humans?
No, the Black bass is harmless to humans. The fin spines are venomous and give a painful, burning puncture wound. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical care if pain or infection persists.
Is the Black bass edible?
Yes, the Black bass is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sebastes
More from the family Sebastidae
Want the complete picture on the Black bass?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black bass is one of 12,519 species in the app.