How to Identify Tiger Rockfish

To identify Tiger Rockfish (Sebastes nigrocinctus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Ground color typically reddish-orange to pinkish-red, overlaid with 5-7 prominent, dark (often black or dark brown) vertical bands that extend onto the dorsal fin. The bands are usually wider than the interspaces. The belly is often paler. Some individuals may have a more yellowish or brownish ground color.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

5-7 prominent, dark vertical bands on a reddish-orange to pinkish-red body., Large mouth with a projecting lower jaw., Strongly spined head, including nasal, preocular, supraocular, postocular, tympanic, parietal, and nuchal spines., Deeply notched dorsal fin., Large pectoral fins.

Dorsal fin

Single, deeply notched dorsal fin with 13-14 strong, venomous spines and 13-15 soft rays. The spiny portion is much longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly emarginate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Large, fan-like pectoral fins with 18-20 rays.

Distinctive fins

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

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Banding

   The most definitive feature is the striking pattern of 5-7 dark, vertical bands on a reddish-orange to pinkish-red body. These bands are typically wider than the lighter interspaces.

2. 2

   Head Spination

   Examine the head for a full complement of strong spines, including nasal, preocular, supraocular, postocular, tympanic, parietal, and nuchal spines. The presence of these robust spines is characteristic.

3. 3

   Dorsal Fin

   Note the deeply notched dorsal fin with 13-14 stout spines. The spiny portion is significantly longer than the soft-rayed portion.

4. 4

   Lateral Line

   The lateral line is typically clear and follows the contour of the body.

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