PNW Critter Watchers - Critter of the Month

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Critter of the Month

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March 2010

Think you know what it is? Click here for the answer and more ID tips!!

ANSWER!

If you guessed China Rockfish, you're right!
Sebastes nebulosus
Scorpionfish Family

Other Names: Yellowstripe Rockfish, Yellowspotted Rockfish
Description/Color: Bluish black to black with yellow spots and blotches.
Range: Common southeast Alaska to California; occasional to rare northern and central California
Size: 8-14 in, max 17 in
Hangouts/Habitat: Rocky inshore areas along exposed coastlines. Lurk in caves and crevices.
Depth: 12-400 ft
Behavior: China Rockfish generally rest on bottom propped up by their fins. When away from hole, they swim near bottom. Solitary. Their territories are apparently small, with a study off Vancouver Island finding Chinas moving only within 10 m (33 ft). They feed on benthic organisms, including brittle stars, chitons, and crustaceans such as crabs and shrimp. Unafraid and curious; china rockfish often allow close view when approached with slow nonthreatening movements.
Biggest Enemy: Humans. This species of rockfish, like many others, has a declining wild population as they are highly esteemed as one of the tastiest rockfish. They have been popular for commercial fishing since the 19th century. During the 1930s, Chinas sold for twice as much as any other rockfish except the black-and-yellow rockfish, and for more than any other kind of finfish. They are today popular in Asia, often being sold alive.
ID Clues: Yellow speckles on head and body, yellow "swoosh" from foredorsal fin that curves to run length of lateral line to tail.
Other Cool Facts: The species epithet nebulosus is Latin for "clouded". Although Jordan and Evermann promoted the common name "yellowspotted rockfish", the "China" name has persisted, due to a perceived preference by persons of Chinese ancestry living in central California.