Fin's Fish Guide
The Bolina (Sebastes auriculatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 56 cm.
Description
The brown rockfish is a rockfish (Sebastidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 55 cm and has a brown-mottled body with a dark blotch on the gill cover. It is a site-attached, sedentary species occurring in shallow water and bays, among sheltering weed-covered rocks and around pilings and docks. It is viviparous, with planktonic larvae. As a bottom predator it feeds on crustaceans and small fishes. The dorsal, pelvic and anal fin spines are venomous and give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bolina?
The Bolina has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Site-attached rockfish of shallow bays; ovoviviparous with venomous fin spines.
Where does the Bolina live?
The Bolina lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; shallow water, bays and seaweed-covered rocks.
How big does the Bolina get?
The Bolina grows to a maximum of about 56 cm.
Is the Bolina dangerous to humans?
The Bolina is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. 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 Bolina edible?
Yes, the Bolina 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 Bolina?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bolina is one of 12,519 species in the app.