Fin's Fish Guide
The Calico rockfish (Sebastes dallii) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The calico rockfish is a rockfish (Sebastidae) from the northeastern Pacific. The species has a stocky, yellow-brown body with irregular dark and orange spots and oblique bands. It lives on or near soft bottoms in coastal waters. Like other rockfishes it is livebearing, with planktonic larvae. As a bottom hunter it feeds on small crustaceans and other invertebrates. The fin spines are venomous; a sting is painful.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Calico rockfish?
The Calico rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Yellow-brown with dark and orange blotches; ovoviviparous rockfish with venomous fin spines.
Where does the Calico rockfish live?
The Calico rockfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Pacific; soft bottoms of coastal waters.
How big does the Calico rockfish get?
The Calico rockfish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Calico rockfish dangerous to humans?
The Calico rockfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. If stung by a fin spine: immerse the affected part in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 degrees C) to break down the venom, and seek medical care for severe or persistent symptoms.
Is the Calico rockfish edible?
Yes, the Calico rockfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Calico rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Calico rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.