Fin's Fish Guide
The Brown bomber (Sebastes entomelas) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The widow rockfish is a rockfish (Sebastidae) from the northeastern Pacific, from Alaska to California. The species reaches about 60 cm and has a stocky, brown to dusky body. Unlike many rockfishes it is an active, free-swimming fish that hunts in schools above rocky reefs or steep shorelines in midwater; sometimes it shelters motionless in caves and crevices. The diet consists of fishes, crustaceans and gelatinous plankton. It is livebearing and gives birth to live young. The fin spines are mildly venomous and can deliver a painful sting when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brown bomber?
The Brown bomber has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Active, shoal-forming redfish in open water; ovoviviparous; mildly venomous fin spines.
Where does the Brown bomber live?
The Brown bomber lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Northeast Pacific, from Alaska to California.
How big does the Brown bomber get?
The Brown bomber grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Brown bomber dangerous to humans?
The Brown bomber is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous and a sting causes acute, burning pain and swelling. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as bearable (about 45 C), remove spine fragments and seek medical help for severe reactions.
Is the Brown bomber edible?
Yes, the Brown bomber 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 Brown bomber?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brown bomber is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone