Fin's Fish Guide
The Grass rockfish (Sebastes rastrelliger) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 56 cm.
Description
The grass rockfish is a stocky rockfish from the eastern Pacific, off the west coast of North America. The species grows to about 56 cm and has a robust, olive-green to brown-green body that lets it hide well among weed and seagrass. In the dorsal, pelvic and anal fins it bears strong, weakly venomous spines that give a painful prick. As a site-attached, ambush-hunting reef-dweller it shelters in shallow water and snaps at crustaceans and small fish. It bears live young. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Grass rockfish?
The Grass rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a marbled pattern. Green camouflage among seaweeds; mildly venomous fin spines; ovoviviparous
Where does the Grass rockfish live?
The Grass rockfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Grass rockfish get?
The Grass rockfish grows to a maximum of about 56 cm.
Is the Grass rockfish dangerous to humans?
The Grass rockfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. If stung by the spines: immerse the affected part in water as hot as tolerable (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom, remove visible spine fragments, and seek medical help for severe pain or swelling.
Is the Grass rockfish edible?
Yes, the Grass 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 Grass rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Grass rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.