Fin's Fish Guide
The Offshore rockfish (Pontinus kuhlii) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 52 cm.
Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, near rocky bottoms of the deeper continental shelf and around the Macaronesian islands.
Description
The offshore rockfish is a red-coloured deep-water scorpionfish of the family Scorpaenidae reaching about 52 cm. The red-pink body with paler blotches has a large, spiny head with bony ridges and notably long front dorsal-fin spines. The dorsal, pelvic and anal fins bear venomous spines. The species lives near rocky bottoms of the deeper continental shelf in the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean and around the Macaronesian islands. As a motionless ambush predator it waits for prey and sucks in passing small fish, crustaceans and squid with a sudden gulp. Because of the venomous spines a caught animal must be handled with care; the flesh itself is good to eat.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Offshore rockfish?
The Offshore rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Red-coloured deep-water scorpionfish with a large, spiny head, long dorsal fin spines and venomous fin spines.
Where does the Offshore rockfish live?
The Offshore rockfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, near rocky bottoms of the deeper continental shelf and around the Macaronesian islands.
How big does the Offshore rockfish get?
The Offshore rockfish grows to a maximum of about 52 cm. On average the species is around 32 cm.
Is the Offshore rockfish dangerous to humans?
The Offshore rockfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous; a prick causes severe, burning pain. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical help for severe reactions.
Is the Offshore rockfish edible?
The Offshore rockfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Offshore rockfish and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pontinus
More from the family Scorpaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Offshore rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Offshore rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.