Fin's Fish Guide
The Kelp rockfish (Sebastes atrovirens) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 42 cm.
Description
The kelp rockfish is a rockfish from the eastern Pacific, along California and Baja California. The species grows to about 42 cm and has a stocky, olive-brown to grey-brown body that camouflages it among kelp. It stays almost motionless in and by kelp forests and on rocky reefs and hunts small fish and crustaceans. Like all rockfishes it has venomous fin spines. The fish is a valued sport fish and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Kelp rockfish?
The Kelp rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Camouflaged in kelp; venomous fin spines
Where does the Kelp rockfish live?
The Kelp rockfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Kelp rockfish get?
The Kelp rockfish grows to a maximum of about 42 cm.
Is the Kelp rockfish dangerous to humans?
The Kelp rockfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous and give a very painful sting. Immerse the injured area in water as hot as tolerable (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom, remove spine fragments, clean the wound and seek medical help for a severe reaction.
Is the Kelp rockfish edible?
Yes, the Kelp 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 Kelp rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Kelp rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.