Introducing our February Fish of the Month, the Kelp Bass, Paralabrax clathratus!
Survey Regions: Kelp Bass are a temperate species found in the California, Pacific Northwest and Alaska - PAC and the northern range of Tropical Eastern Pacific - TEP. Their range extends from the Columbia River in Washington to Magdalena Bay in Baja California, Mexico, though they are most commonly sighted in Southern California.
Size: They grow to about 70 cm / 28 in.
Identifying Features: Kelp Bass, often called "Calico Bass," are characterized by a mottled pattern of brown, olive, and white blotches. They feature a square tail and a dorsal fin where the third, fourth, and fifth spines are of approximately equal length, distinguishing them from related sand bass species.
Fun Facts: Kelp Bass are typically found in kelp beds and rocky reefs from the surface down to about 150 feet. They are solitary or form loose groups and are ambush predators, feeding on smaller fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for our next Fish of the Month.
Photo by Jeff Haines