Sebastes oculatus, also known as the is a species of marine fish belonging to the family Sebastidae. This species is commonly found in various regions of the Pacific Ocean, inhabiting diverse marine zones.
Description & Characteristics
Sebastes oculatus is a moderately sized fish, reaching a maximum length of 40.8 cm. Its distinctive features contribute to its identification. This species exhibits a robust body structure, with a relatively large head. Its coloration ranges from light to dark brown, often adorned with darker blotches or spots. Sebastes oculatus possesses a characteristic feature, a large eye, which contributes to its common name, “bigeye rockfish”.
Habitat and Occurrence
Sebastes oculatus is a bottom-dwelling fish, typically inhabiting rocky reefs and in the Pacific Ocean. These are commonly found in depths ranging from 18 to 274 meters, often residing in the bathyal zone, a region of the ocean characterized by dim light and moderate pressure.
Taxonomy
Sebastes oculatus is classified within the Class Teleostei, Order Perciformes, and Family Sebastidae. This family, commonly known as rockfishes, is characterized by their diverse and wide-ranging species, often exhibiting a spiny first dorsal fin and a distinctive body shape adapted to their benthic lifestyle.
Feeding
Like many other rockfishes, Sebastes oculatus is a carnivorous species, primarily feeding on smaller fish and invertebrates. Its diet consists of a variety of organisms, including shrimp, crabs, and small fish, which it hunts and captures in its benthic habitat.
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