The Black-and-yellow Rockfish, scientifically known as Sebastes chrysomelas, is a species of fish belonging to the family Sebastidae. These rockfish are commonly found in a variety of marine habitats, particularly in the neritic zone, which extends from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge at about 200 meters water depth.
Description & Characteristics
Black-and-yellow Rockfish are characterized by their distinctive black and yellow coloration. They can reach a maximum size of 39.0 cm in length. They inhabit a depth range from the surface to approximately 37.0 meters.
Habitat and Occurrence
Black-and-yellow Rockfish are adaptable fish, often found in various rocky environments. They prefer crevices, outcrops, ledges, shores, and coasts, typically inhabiting hard seabeds. These fish are found in seawater, demonstrating their preference for marine habitats. They are a common sight in the Subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zone of the oceans, making them a familiar presence in these aquatic ecosystems.
Taxonomy
The Black-and-yellow Rockfish, Sebastes chrysomelas, is classified within the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Sebastidae. This placement reflects its evolutionary lineage and shared characteristics with other members of these taxonomic groups.
Feeding
Sebastes chrysomelas is a carnivorous fish with a diverse diet. Their prey includes a variety of marine organisms such as algae, amphipods, aquatic plants, chitons, coral polyps, coralfish, crustaceans, fish (including small fishes), isopods, krill, mysis, schrimps, sea weed, sepia, snails, starfish, and worms. Their predatory nature allows them to thrive in their rocky habitats, effectively foraging for a wide array of food sources.
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