Rockfish

A rockfish is a large group of marine fish belonging to the genus Sebastes. There are over 100 different species of rockfish found in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, and they are known for their spiny fins and long lifespans.

Rockfish have a stout, heavy body with a large mouth and protruding eyes. Their most distinguishing feature is a series of strong, venomous spines on their dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins, which they use for defense. Their coloration is highly variable depending on the species and habitat, ranging from bright red and orange to mottled green and brown. Many species can live for an exceptionally long time, with some reaching over 100 years old.

As their name suggests, rockfish are bottom-dwellers that prefer rocky habitats, from shallow reefs to the deep waters of the continental shelf. They are ambush predators that wait for prey to come by before striking. Their diet consists of a variety of small fish, crabs, shrimp, and other invertebrates.

Rockfish are a very important species for both commercial and recreational fishing, particularly on the West Coast of North America. They are sold in fish markets as "red snapper" or "rock cod," though they are not true cod or snapper. Their long lifespan and slow reproductive rate make them particularly vulnerable to overfishing, and many species are now subject to strict catch limits and conservation measures.