Fin's Fish Guide
The Bocaccio (Sebastes paucispinis) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 91 cm.
Description
The bocaccio is a large rockfish (Sebastidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 91 cm and has an elongate, red-brown to olive body with a large mouth and a strongly projecting lower jaw. Adults live over rocky reefs, but are also common on open bottoms to about 320 m deep; juveniles are pelagic, settle in inshore nursery areas and later move to deeper water. It feeds mainly on fishes, including other rockfishes. Owing to overfishing the species is regarded as critically endangered. The venomous fin spines inflict a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bocaccio?
The Bocaccio has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Large mouth with a protruding lower jaw; critically endangered by overfishing; venomous fin spines.
Where does the Bocaccio live?
The Bocaccio lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific; rocky reefs and open bottoms.
How big does the Bocaccio get?
The Bocaccio grows to a maximum of about 91 cm.
Is the Bocaccio dangerous to humans?
The Bocaccio is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous and give a painful, burning puncture wound. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical care if pain or infection persists.
Is the Bocaccio edible?
Yes, the Bocaccio is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sebastes
More from the family Sebastidae
Want the complete picture on the Bocaccio?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bocaccio is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone