Fin's Fish Guide
The Rock cod (Sebastes jordani) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 32 cm.
Description
The shortbelly rockfish is a slender rockfish from the eastern Pacific, off the west coast of North America. The species grows to about 32 cm and has an elongate, pink to olive body. In the dorsal, pelvic and anal fins it bears strong, weakly venomous spines that give a painful prick. Unlike many rockfish it often schools in large numbers in open water over the continental slope and feeds on krill and zooplankton. It bears live young. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rock cod?
The Rock cod has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Weakly venomous fin spines; schooling open-water redfish; ovoviviparous
Where does the Rock cod live?
The Rock cod lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Rock cod get?
The Rock cod grows to a maximum of about 32 cm.
Is the Rock cod dangerous to humans?
The Rock cod 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 Rock cod edible?
The Rock cod is rarely 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 Rock cod?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Rock cod is one of 12,519 species in the app.