The Flag Rockfish (Sebastes rubrivinctus) is a species of marine fish in the family Sebastidae, which comprises rockfishes and thornyheads. It is a commercially valuable fish that is often targeted by recreational and commercial fisheries.
Description & Characteristics
The Flag Rockfish is characterized by its elongated, fusiform body shape and a distinctive red color. This species can attain a maximum size of 51.0 cm.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Flag Rockfish (Sebastes rubrivinctus) is commonly found in the northeastern Pacific Ocean, inhabiting depths ranging from the surface to 302 meters. This species can be found in both the epipelagic and mesopelagic zones, indicating its adaptability to a range of oceanic environments.
Taxonomy
The species Sebastes rubrivinctus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Sebastidae. This classification places the Flag Rockfish within a group of diverse and widely distributed bony fishes known for their spiny fins and often colorful appearances.
Feeding
The Flag Rockfish (Sebastes rubrivinctus) is a carnivorous fish with a diet consisting mainly of crustaceans, fish (particularly small ones), krill, mysis, sepia, and zooplankton. Its predatory nature is evident in its consumption of these marine invertebrates and smaller fish. It can also be found consuming frozen food, highlighting its adaptability and opportunistic feeding habits.
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