Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted rockfish (Sebastiscus tertius) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 37 cm.
Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea (North) and others
Description
The spotted rockfish is a scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae) from deeper rocky and reef water of the northwest Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a stocky, red-brown mottled body with pale spots and a large, spiny head. As a bottom-oriented ambush hunter it shelters among rocks and coral and snaps at small fish and crustaceans. It gives birth to live young. The dorsal and gill-cover spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted rockfish?
The Spotted rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Spotted rockfish live?
The Spotted rockfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea (North) and others
How big does the Spotted rockfish get?
The Spotted rockfish grows to a maximum of about 37 cm.
Is the Spotted rockfish dangerous to humans?
The Spotted rockfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sebastiscus
More from the family Sebastidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotted rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.