How to Identify Pacific Ocean Perch

To identify Pacific Ocean Perch (Sebastes alutus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Typically reddish to orange-red on the dorsal surface, fading to pinkish or whitish on the ventral side. Some individuals may have faint dusky blotches or bars on their sides. Fins are often reddish.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Large eyes, characteristic of deep-water species., Strongly compressed body., Presence of a prominent symphyseal knob (a bony projection) on the lower jaw, which can be small or absent in some individuals., Relatively smooth head spines compared to many other rockfish species, though still present., Lateral line is distinct and follows the contour of the body.

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin with 13-15 (typically 14) strong, venomous spines followed by 13-16 soft rays. The spinous and soft-rayed portions are deeply notched.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is moderately forked.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively long, extending beyond the anus, with 18-20 rays.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin has 3 spines and 7-9 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic with 1 spine and 5 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration

   Look for the characteristic reddish to orange-red body, often with a paler belly. This distinguishes it from some darker rockfish species.

2. 2

   Eyes

   Its large eyes are a key indicator of its deep-water habitat and help differentiate it from shallower-dwelling rockfish.

3. 3

   Symphyseal Knob

   Check for a small to prominent bony knob on the tip of the lower jaw. While variable, its presence is a good diagnostic feature.

4. 4

   Dorsal Fin Spines

   Count the dorsal fin spines (typically 14) and note the deep notch between the spinous and soft-rayed portions.

5. 5

   Pectoral Fin Length

   Observe if the pectoral fins are long, usually extending past the anus.

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