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| From 23rd Trip: 1/2 Day Afternoon on the Icon 8/8/09 |
Name: Treefish
Family: Sebastes serriceps
The Treefish has a compact body with large head spines, and it comes in two distinctive color patterns. Juvenile Treefish have a yellow body with at least six black stripes and fins tipped in white and iridescent blue. As the Treefish matures, the stripes and colors become less prominent, gradually fading to a dark olive.
The Treefish has two identifying and characteristic dark bands running obliquely running from the eyes to the pectoral fins. Adult Treefish also have large fleshy pink lips which are viewed as a protective device. The Treefish has rounded anal, caudal, and pectoral fins. Due to its yellow coloration, unique stripes, and red lips, the Treefish is not easily confused with other rockfishes.
Body color: Dark olive above, yellowish below; sides of body w/ 5-6 distinct, vertical, black-olive bands; lips tinged w/ pink; anal fin dark.
Habitat: Treefish prefer very rocky terrain with many large holes and crevices. When visiting the islands tree fish prefer the man made rock quarries and break walls. In natural habitats you will find them in the lush kelp in crevices.
Maximum length: 16 in
Peritoneum color: light
Maximum depth: 25 fm (46 m)
Common depth: <22 fm (<40 m)
Distribution: Northern California – Baja California
