How to Identify Bocaccio Rockfish

To identify Bocaccio Rockfish (Sebastes paucispinis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Adults are typically olive-brown to orange-red on the dorsal side, fading to pinkish or white on the ventral side. Juveniles are often lighter, with a more pronounced reddish hue. Fins are usually reddish.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Large, upturned mouth with a projecting lower jaw, Long, slender body, Absence of spines on the lower jaw, Relatively few spines on the dorsal fin compared to other rockfish (paucispinis means 'few spines'), Large eyes

Dorsal fin

Single, deeply notched dorsal fin with 12-13 spines and 13-15 soft rays. The spinous portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Long and pointed pectoral fins, reaching beyond the anus.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 8-10 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Mouth and Jaw

   Look for a very large mouth with a distinctly projecting lower jaw. The symphyseal knob (a knob at the tip of the lower jaw) is absent or very small.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fin Spines

   Count the dorsal fin spines; Bocaccio typically have 12-13, which is fewer than many other rockfish species. The spinous portion is also notably longer than the soft-rayed portion.

3. 3

   Body Shape and Color

   Observe the elongated, slender body and the coloration, which is usually olive-brown to orange-red dorsally, fading to pinkish-white ventrally. Juveniles are often brighter red.

4. 4

   Pectoral Fins

   Note the long, pointed pectoral fins that extend past the anus.

Explore Bocaccio Rockfish