Kelp Bass
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| Kelp Bass | ||||||||||||||
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| Scientific classification | ||||||||||||||
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| Binomial name | ||||||||||||||
| Paralabrax clathratus (Girard, 1854) |
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Labrax clathratus |
The Kelp Bass (Paralabrax clathratus), sometimes referred to as the Calico Bass (leading to easy confusion with the freshwater fishes from the genus Pomoxis), is a species of marine fish found in the north-eastern Pacific Ocean from Baja California, Mexico, to Washington, USA[1] (although rare in the northernmost part of its range).[2] As suggested by its common name, it is typically associated with kelp beds, but may also be found in rocky areas or near hard structures.[3] It prefers relatively shallow water, but may occur as deep as 165 ft (50 m).[1]
It can reach a length of 28 1/2 inches (72 cm), and, being a slow grower, live for as much as 34 years.[1] It is considered an excellent food fish, and is a popular recreational fishery species in Southern California. While the population is believed to be stable, large individuals are relatively rare due to fishing pressure.[2] Commercial fishing for this species has been illegal since the 1950s.[3]
It feeds on small fishes, squid, crustaceans, and, when abundant, plankton.[1] During the warmer months (May to August in California),[1] Kelp Basses form spawning groups in deeper water.[4] After 1-2 days, the pelagic eggs hatch into larvae, which metamorph into juveniles after approximately a month. The juveniles settle among blades of kelp.[3]
[edit] Etymology
Paralabrax comes for two Greek words which mean "near Labrax". Labrax is the name of the European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax). Clathratus is also Greek, and refers to the blotchy markings on the fish's sides.
[edit] References
- ^ a b c d e "Kelp bass: Paralabrax clathratus (Girard, 1854), Fish Base
- ^ a b Kelp Bass (PDF) - California Department of Fish & Game. Accessed 28 February - 2008.
- ^ a b c About Calico Bass - Calisco Bass Tagging Project. Accessed 28 February - 2008.
- ^ Kelp Bass (a.k.a. Calico Bass) - Dr. Larry G. Allen. mdranglers. Accessed 28 February - 2008.
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