Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackgill rockfish (Sebastes melanostomus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Description
The blackgill rockfish is a deep-water rockfish from the eastern Pacific, ranging from Washington to central Baja California. The species grows to about 70 cm and is dark red with conspicuous black skin above the upper jaw, a black mouth lining and a black rear edge of the gill cover; the head bears the head spines characteristic of rockfishes. It lives over soft bottoms between about 124 and 769 metres depth. Like all rockfishes it has venomous fin spines. The IUCN has not evaluated the species (NE).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackgill rockfish?
The Blackgill rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Deep-water redfish with a black gill edge; venomous fin spines
Where does the Blackgill rockfish live?
The Blackgill rockfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Blackgill rockfish get?
The Blackgill rockfish grows to a maximum of about 70 cm.
Is the Blackgill rockfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackgill rockfish is harmless to humans. The fin spines of rockfishes (Sebastidae) are venomous. If stung: clean the wound and immerse the painful area in water as hot as tolerable (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom. Remove any spine fragments and seek medical help if the reaction is severe.
Is the Blackgill rockfish edible?
Yes, the Blackgill rockfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
Same genus Sebastes
More from the family Sebastidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackgill rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackgill rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.