Fin's Fish Guide
The Channel rockcod (Sebastolobus alascanus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 80 cm.
Description
The shortspine thornyhead is a deep-sea scorpionfish of the rockfish family (Sebastidae) from the northern Pacific. The species grows to about 80 cm and has a stocky, reddish body with a large, spiny head. It is very common on soft bottoms of the continental slope at great depth. As a slow bottom predator it feeds on crustaceans, worms, molluscs and small fishes. Reproduction is oviparous, with floating egg masses. Thornyheads grow slowly and become very old, making the species vulnerable to overfishing and listed as Endangered (EN). The head and fin spines bear venom; a sting gives a painful wound, so handle the fish with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Channel rockcod?
The Channel rockcod has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Large, spiny head; long-lived deep-sea dweller with venomous spines, endangered (EN) due to fishing.
Where does the Channel rockcod live?
The Channel rockcod lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North Pacific; soft bottoms of the continental slope at great depth.
How big does the Channel rockcod get?
The Channel rockcod grows to a maximum of about 80 cm.
Is the Channel rockcod dangerous to humans?
The Channel rockcod 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 Channel rockcod edible?
Yes, the Channel rockcod is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Sebastidae
Want the complete picture on the Channel rockcod?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Channel rockcod is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone