How to Identify Sablefish

To identify Sablefish (Anoplopoma fimbria), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Adults are typically dark gray to black on the dorsal side, fading to a lighter gray or white on the ventral side. Juveniles may have lighter, mottled patterns.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Two distinct dorsal fins, separated by a small gap., Large mouth extending to below the eye., Prominent lateral line., Smooth, small scales., Absence of spines on the operculum (gill cover).

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 17-21 spines, the second with 16-19 soft rays. The first dorsal fin is noticeably taller than the second.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is moderately forked.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively large and rounded, with 17-20 rays.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin has 3 spines and 15-19 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic, located below the pectoral fins, with 1 spine and 5 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for an elongated, slender body that is dark gray to black dorsally and lighter ventrally. This dark coloration is a key identifier.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fins

   Note the two distinct dorsal fins, with the first being spiny and taller than the second soft-rayed fin. There is a clear separation between them.

3. 3

   Mouth

   Observe the large mouth that extends to or slightly beyond the posterior margin of the eye.

4. 4

   Scales

   Feel for small, smooth scales, which are characteristic of the species.

5. 5

   Absence of Opercular Spines

   Unlike many other Scorpaeniformes, Sablefish lack prominent spines on their gill covers, which helps differentiate them from some rockfishes.

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