| Greenspotted Rockfish | |
|
|
|
Family: |
Scorpaenidae (Scorpionfishes) |
Genus and Species: |
Sebastes chlorostictus |
Description: |
The body of the greenspotted rockfish is elongate and moderately compressed. The upper profile of the head is rather steep with a nearly straight slope. The jaws are even when closed. The color is yellow pink with distinct green spots over the back and top of the head. There are three to five white blotches with green borders along the upper back, and the pectoral fins carry 17 rays. The underside of the lower jaw has no scales and is smooth to the touch. Two other species, the greenblotched rockfish and pink rock fish, are nearly identical to the greenspotted rockfish. Nevertheless, they can be distinguished from the greenspotted rockfish by the small patches of scales on the underside of their lower jaws. These two look-alike species attain a larger size than the greenspotted rockfish, but are not encountered as frequently since they usually inhabit deeper water. |
Range: |
The greenspotted rockfish occurs from Cedros Island, Baja California, to Copalis Head, Washington. Greenspotted rockfish are caught around offshore, rocky reefs at depths ranging from 160 to 660 feet. |
Natural History: |
As with other rockfishes, fertilization is internal and live young are born. The young are born during the period of April through July. |
Fishing Information: |
The greenspotted rockfish is a common species in the deep-water rockfish catch. It is not considered very desirable, however, because of its small size. |
Other Common Names: |
chucklehead, red rock cod, bolina. |
Largest Recorded: |
19.75 inches; no weight recorded. |
Habitat: |
Deep Rocky Environment |
BACK TO FISH CHART
Copyright © 2001 Dive Shop Groupies