Fin's Fish Guide
The Rockfish (Sebastes rosaceus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 36 cm.
Description
The rosy rockfish is an attractively coloured rockfish (Sebastidae) from the northeastern Pacific, from Washington to Baja California. The species reaches about 36 cm and has a rosy-red body with several pale, blue-edged blotches on the back. It inhabits rocky reefs, at depths of about 15 to 128 m. The diet consists of crustaceans, molluscs and small fishes. It is caught fairly often by sport fishers with small hooks. Like other rockfishes it is livebearing. The fin spines are mildly venomous and can deliver a painful sting when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rockfish?
The Rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Beautiful pink-red rockfish with pale blotches; ovoviviparous; mildly venomous fin spines.
Where does the Rockfish live?
The Rockfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Pacific, from Washington to Baja California.
How big does the Rockfish get?
The Rockfish grows to a maximum of about 36 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 and swelling. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as bearable (about 45 C), remove spine fragments and seek medical help for severe reactions.
Is the Rockfish edible?
Yes, the 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 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.