Fin's Fish Guide
The Blacktip rockfish (Sebastes aleutianus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 97 cm.
Description
The rougheye rockfish is a rockfish (Sebastidae) from the northern Pacific. The species grows to about 97 cm and has a robust, reddish body with a few small spines along the lower rim of the eye, to which the name refers. It usually lives well offshore in deeper water. The species is one of the longest-living fishes in the world: individuals can live for more than a century. It is viviparous and releases live larvae. The dorsal, pelvic and anal fin spines are venomous and inflict a painful puncture wound. The species is eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blacktip rockfish?
The Blacktip rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Small spines beneath the eye; extremely long-lived (>100 years); ovoviviparous with venomous fin spines.
Where does the Blacktip rockfish live?
The Blacktip rockfish 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 Blacktip rockfish get?
The Blacktip rockfish grows to a maximum of about 97 cm.
Is the Blacktip rockfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blacktip rockfish 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 Blacktip rockfish edible?
Yes, the Blacktip rockfish 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 Blacktip rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blacktip rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.