How to Identify Quillback Rockfish

To identify Quillback Rockfish (Sebastes maliger), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Highly variable, typically mottled with dark brown, black, and yellowish-orange or olive-green patches over a lighter background. The ventral surface is usually lighter. Often has dark blotches on the operculum and a dark stripe extending from the eye.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Very high, deeply notched dorsal fin with long, stout, venomous spines., Prominent, often dark, blotches on the body and head., Thick, fleshy lips., Large eyes., Strongly compressed body.

Dorsal fin

Single, very high dorsal fin with 15-16 stout, venomous spines and 13-15 soft rays. The spinous portion is deeply notched from the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly emarginate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Large, rounded pectoral fins with 17-19 rays.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 stout spines and 6-8 soft rays. Pelvic fins thoracic with 1 spine and 5 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Dorsal Fin Spines

   Count the number of dorsal fin spines (15-16) and note their stoutness and length, particularly the anterior spines which are notably long and quill-like, giving the fish its common name.

2. 2

   Coloration and Pattern

   Observe the mottled brown, black, and yellowish-orange/olive-green coloration. Look for distinct dark blotches on the operculum and a dark stripe extending from the eye.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Note the strongly compressed body and relatively large head.

4. 4

   Lips

   Examine the lips, which are typically thick and fleshy.

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