Fin's Fish Guide
The Darkbanded rockfish (Sebastes ventricosus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The Darkbanded rockfish is a rockfish (Sebastidae) from cool to cold rocky and deep water of the northwest Pacific off Japan. 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 Darkbanded rockfish?
The Darkbanded rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly red-orange. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Darkbanded rockfish live?
The Darkbanded rockfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Japan
How big does the Darkbanded rockfish get?
The Darkbanded rockfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Darkbanded rockfish dangerous to humans?
The Darkbanded 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 Darkbanded rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Darkbanded rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.