Fin's Fish Guide
The Rasphead rockfish (Sebastes ruberrimus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 104 cm.
Description
The yelloweye rockfish is a large rockfish (Sebastidae) from the northeastern Pacific. The species grows to about 90 cm and has an orange-red body with conspicuously bright yellow eyes, to which the name refers. It lives on rocky reefs and boulder fields; younger fish occur in shallower water. The species is very long-lived and can live for more than a century. It is viviparous and feeds on fishes and crustaceans. The dorsal, pelvic and anal fin spines are venomous and give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rasphead rockfish?
The Rasphead rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Bright yellow eyes; extremely long-lived (>100 years); ovoviviparous with venomous fin spines.
Where does the Rasphead rockfish live?
The Rasphead rockfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Northeast Pacific; rocky reefs and boulder fields.
How big does the Rasphead rockfish get?
The Rasphead rockfish grows to a maximum of about 104 cm.
Is the Rasphead rockfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Rasphead rockfish is harmless to humans. The fin spines are venomous and give a painful, burning puncture wound. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical care if pain or infection persists.
Is the Rasphead rockfish edible?
Yes, the Rasphead rockfish is commonly eaten.
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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 Rasphead rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Rasphead rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.