Where Does Surfperch Live?

Surfperch lives in specific habitats. Knowing where to look helps you find and identify it.

Where to find Surfperch

Water type

saltwater

Depth

Typically found in shallow coastal waters, from the intertidal zone down to about 100 meters (330 feet), though some species can be found deeper.

Environment

Rocky reefs, kelp forests, sandy surf zones, estuaries, and occasionally around piers and jetties. They often associate with structure for shelter and foraging.

Geographic range

Predominantly North Pacific Ocean, from Baja California, Mexico, north to Alaska, and across to Japan and Korea. A single species, Hysterocarpus traski (Tule Perch), is found in freshwater in California.

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