Vermilion rockfish are found along the Pacific coast from Alaska to Mexico. They are named for their bright red vermilion color.
The life of a vermilion rockfish
Vermilion rockfish can grow up to 30 inches long and weigh up to 15 pounds. Their lifespan varies, but they can live as long as 60 years. They are found at depths ranging from 39 to over 1,500 feet.
Young vermilion rockfish are often found in shallow water. They move to deeper waters as they age. Most fish lay eggs, but vermilion rockfish give birth to tiny live larval fish, which are about the size of an eyelash.
Vermilion rockfish form schools, sometimes as large as 100 fish or more. They live in rocky habitats and underwater caves. Young vermilion rockfish feed on krill. Adults feed on squid and octopus as well as smaller fish like sand lance and herring.
Predators include seabirds, sharks and larger fish such as lingcod, salmon and cabezon.
Vermilion rockfish at the zoo
Located in the Steller Cove area.
