Fin's Fish Guide
The Starry rockfish (Sebastes constellatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 46 cm.
Description
The starry rockfish is a rockfish from the eastern Pacific, from central California to Baja California. The species grows to about 46 cm and has an orange-red body densely covered with numerous small white spots, like stars, from which it takes its name; the head bears the spines characteristic of rockfishes. It lives on deep rocky bottoms and hunts small fish and crustaceans. Like all rockfishes it has venomous fin spines. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Starry rockfish?
The Starry rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Studded with white spots ('stars'); venomous fin spines
Where does the Starry rockfish live?
The Starry rockfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Starry rockfish get?
The Starry rockfish grows to a maximum of about 46 cm.
Is the Starry rockfish dangerous to humans?
The Starry rockfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous and give a very painful sting. Immerse the injured area in water as hot as tolerable (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom, remove spine fragments, clean the wound and seek medical help for a severe reaction.
Is the Starry rockfish edible?
Yes, the Starry 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 Starry rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Starry rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.