China Rockfish

China rockfish (Sebastes nebulosus)

Watch out for my spines!!


China rockfish prefer waters along the outer coast and at the western end of the Salish Sea and are known as very territorial cave dwellers. They grow up to 45 cm in length, and are very attractive fish with a dark blue to black body covered with yellow freckles and a distinctive yellow stripe that travels from their third dorsel fin to the tail. Its bright colours are most likely a warning to predators to stay away because this rockfish has venomous spines. The dorsal fin has long spines to ward off enemies, and if threatened, the rockfish will extend these spines to make itself appear larger than life! The dorsel fin is also used to help the fish maneuver into tight crevices and caves by allowing it to anchor or brace against the cave walls or roof. China Rockfish are generally solitary hunters and use their superpower ability to squirm into tight crevices to capture brittle stars, crustaceans, squid, and shrimp. Adult china rockfish prefer to hang out in the numerous crevices provided by rocky outcrops, and they are very territorial, only venturing out to about a 10 m from home. Perhaps because they do not stray far from home and can squeeze into tiny hiding spots, they can live to about 80 years old!

 http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/bottomfish/identification/rockfish/s_nebulosus.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/China_rockfish
http://aquarium.org/animals/china-rockfish/