How to Identify Yelloweye Rockfish

To identify Yelloweye Rockfish (Sebastes ruberrimus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Adults are typically bright orange to reddish-orange, often mottled with yellow or white patches. Juveniles are darker, often reddish-brown with two distinct white stripes along the lateral line and a white patch on the caudal peduncle, which fade with age. The ventral surface is usually lighter. The most distinctive feature is the bright yellow iris of the eye.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Bright yellow iris (eye color), Rough, spiny head and body, Prominent ridges and spines on the head, Large mouth, Thick, fleshy lips, Absence of a strong symphyseal knob on the lower jaw (distinguishes from some other rockfish)

Dorsal fin

Single, deeply notched dorsal fin with 13-14 stout, venomous spines and 12-15 soft rays. The spinous portion is much longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly emarginate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Large, rounded pectoral fins with 18-20 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

   Eye Color

   The most definitive characteristic is the bright, almost luminous, yellow iris of the eye in adults. This is unique among most large rockfish in its range.

2. 2

   Body Coloration

   Adults are predominantly orange to reddish-orange. While other rockfish can be red, the combination of this color with the yellow eye is key. Juveniles have distinct white stripes that fade with age.

3. 3

   Head Spines

   Possesses numerous strong spines and ridges on the head, typical of rockfish, but the overall robust and spiny appearance is characteristic.

4. 4

   Size

   Yelloweye Rockfish are among the largest rockfish species, reaching lengths of up to 91 cm (36 inches) and weights over 18 kg (40 lbs). Large size often indicates an older individual.

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