Fin's Fish Guide
The Giant kelpfish (Heterostichus rostratus) is a saltwater fish of the family Clinidae that grows up to 61 cm.
Eastern Pacific off North America; rocks with seaweeds and kelp forests.
Description
The giant kelpfish is a kelpfish (Clinidae) from the eastern Pacific off the west coast of North America. The species has an elongate, laterally compressed body with a pointed snout and a strongly variable colour (green, brown or reddish) that mimics the colour of the surrounding weed, an excellent camouflage. It lives among rocks with large seaweeds, often in kelp forests, from the intertidal zone to about 40 m deep. As an ambush hunter it springs on small crustaceans and small fishes. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Giant kelpfish?
The Giant kelpfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Mimics the surrounding seaweed with variable colour; camouflaged ambush predator of kelp forests.
Where does the Giant kelpfish live?
The Giant kelpfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific off North America; rocks with seaweeds and kelp forests.
How big does the Giant kelpfish get?
The Giant kelpfish grows to a maximum of about 61 cm.
Is the Giant kelpfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Giant kelpfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Giant kelpfish edible?
The Giant kelpfish is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Giant kelpfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Giant kelpfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Clinidae
Want the complete picture on the Giant kelpfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Giant kelpfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.