Fin's Fish Guide
The Flag rockfish (Sebastes rubrivinctus) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 51 cm.
Description
The flag rockfish is a rockfish (Sebastidae) from the eastern Pacific, from California to Baja California. The species reaches about 51 cm and has a striking red-and-white body with four dark cross-bands, a pattern reminiscent of a flag. It inhabits rocky areas, often at some depth. Like all rockfishes the species is viviparous and gives birth to numerous larvae after internal fertilisation. The diet consists of small fishes, crustaceans and squid. The fin spines are venomous and can deliver a painful sting when handled. Specimens over 51 cm probably concern the related Sebastes babcocki.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flag rockfish?
The Flag rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Red-white with dark vertical bars ('flag'); ovoviviparous with venomous fin spines.
Where does the Flag rockfish live?
The Flag rockfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific, from California to Baja California.
How big does the Flag rockfish get?
The Flag rockfish grows to a maximum of about 51 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Flag rockfish dangerous to humans?
The Flag rockfish 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, swelling and redness. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as bearable (about 45 C), remove any spine fragments and seek medical help for severe reactions.
Is the Flag rockfish edible?
Yes, the Flag rockfish 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 Flag rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flag rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone