How to Identify Acadian Redfish

To identify Acadian Redfish (Sebastes fasciatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Typically bright red to orange-red dorsally, fading to pinkish or whitish ventrally. Some individuals may have dusky or mottled patterns, especially when young. Fins are often reddish.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Large eyes, often appearing disproportionately large for its head, adapted for low-light conditions., Presence of several strong, sharp spines on the head, particularly above the eyes and on the operculum (gill cover)., A prominent, bony ridge below the eye., Lateral line is distinct and often lighter in color than the body.

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin with 14-16 strong, venomous spines followed by 13-16 soft rays. A deep notch separates the spiny and soft-rayed portions.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is truncate to slightly emarginate.

Pectoral fin

Large and fan-like, with 18-21 rays.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin has 3 strong 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 bright red to orange-red body color. This is a primary indicator, though color can fade post-capture.

2. 2

   Head Spines

   Carefully observe the head for prominent, sharp spines, especially above the eyes (supraocular spines) and on the operculum. The Acadian Redfish typically has a strong parietal spine (on the top of the head behind the eye) and a distinct preorbital spine (in front of the eye).

3. 3

   Lateral Line

   Note the distinct lateral line, which is often lighter in color and runs along the side of the body.

4. 4

   Dorsal Fin

   Count the number of spines (14-16) and soft rays (13-16) in the dorsal fin. The deep notch between the spiny and soft-rayed portions is also characteristic.

5. 5

   Eye Size

   The eyes are relatively large, an adaptation to its deep-water habitat.

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