Atlantic Redfish and Similar Species
Sebastes norvegicus
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Atlantic Redfish. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Deepwater Redfish
Sebastes mentella
Key differences: S. mentella typically has a more pointed snout, a larger eye relative to head length, and a more pronounced bony tubercle at the symphysis of the lower jaw. Its coloration can be a deeper red. Genetic analysis is often required for definitive identification, especially for smaller specimens.
Acadian Redfish
Sebastes fasciatus
Key differences: S. fasciatus is found primarily in the western North Atlantic. It generally has fewer soft rays in the anal fin (7-8 vs. 8-10 for S. norvegicus) and a different number of lateral line pores. Morphological differences can be subtle and overlap, making identification challenging without expert examination or genetic tools.
Golden Redfish
Sebastes marinus (older synonym for S. norvegicus)
Key differences: Historically, S. marinus was used to refer to the larger, shallower-dwelling form, while S. mentella referred to the smaller, deeper-dwelling form. Modern taxonomy often considers S. marinus as a synonym for S. norvegicus, with S. mentella as a distinct species. The 'Golden Redfish' name is still sometimes used for S. norvegicus, particularly for larger, more golden-hued individuals.
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