Fin's Fish Guide
The Chameleon rockfish (Sebastes phillipsi) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 43 cm.
Description
The Chameleon rockfish is a rockfish (Sebastidae) from cool to cold rocky and deep water of the eastern Pacific off California. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a stocky, often reddish body with a large, spiny head and stout fin spines. As a bottom-oriented fish it shelters by rocks, ledges and wrecks and snaps at small fish, crustaceans and squid. Rockfishes live to a great age and give birth to live young. The dorsal and gill-cover spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chameleon rockfish?
The Chameleon rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly red-orange. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Chameleon rockfish live?
The Chameleon rockfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. North America: USA
How big does the Chameleon rockfish get?
The Chameleon rockfish grows to a maximum of about 43 cm.
Is the Chameleon rockfish dangerous to humans?
The Chameleon rockfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
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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 Chameleon rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chameleon rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.