Fin's Fish Guide
The Mexican rockfish (Sebastes macdonaldi) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 66 cm.
Description
The Mexican rockfish is a rockfish (Sebastidae) from the northeastern Pacific. The species has a robust, reddish body with a few dark lengthwise stripes. Adults live near the bottom in deeper water, while juveniles up to about six centimetres are pelagic. Like other rockfishes it is livebearing. As a bottom hunter it feeds on small fishes, crustaceans and squids. It is an important game fish. The fin spines are venomous; a sting is painful.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mexican rockfish?
The Mexican rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Dark longitudinal stripes; ovoviviparous rockfish and sport fish with venomous fin spines.
Where does the Mexican rockfish live?
The Mexican rockfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Pacific; near the bottom in deeper water.
How big does the Mexican rockfish get?
The Mexican rockfish grows to a maximum of about 66 cm.
Is the Mexican rockfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Mexican rockfish is harmless to humans. If stung by a fin spine: immerse the affected part in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 degrees C) to break down the venom, and seek medical care for severe or persistent symptoms.
Is the Mexican rockfish edible?
Yes, the Mexican 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 Mexican rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mexican rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.