Fin's Fish Guide
The Rockfish (Sebastes hopkinsi) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 29 cm.
Description
The squarespot rockfish is a rockfish (Sebastidae) from the eastern Pacific, from California to Baja California. The species reaches about 29 cm and has an olive-brown body with several dark, square blotches on the back, to which the name refers. It inhabits shallow rocky reefs and feeds on zooplankton and small invertebrates. Like all rockfishes the species is viviparous: after internal fertilisation the female gives birth to large numbers of larvae. The fin spines are venomous and can deliver a painful sting when handled. The species is regularly eaten and caught in recreational fisheries.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rockfish?
The Rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Dark, square blotches on the back; ovoviviparous with venomous fin spines.
Where does the Rockfish live?
The Rockfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific, from California to Baja California.
How big does the Rockfish get?
The Rockfish grows to a maximum of about 29 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Rockfish dangerous to humans?
The Rockfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous and a sting causes acute, burning pain, swelling and redness. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as bearable (about 45 C), remove any spine fragments and seek medical help for severe reactions.
Is the Rockfish edible?
Yes, the 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 Rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.