One of the largest and most diverse groups of fish that reside in the waters of the Pacific Northwest and around the world are rockfish. Part of the Scorpaenidae family, there are 102 worldwide and 36 residing along the Coast of British Columbia. In contrast there are only 8 species of salmon worldwide.
Though once more plentiful, it is hard to do a dive anywhere in British Columbia and not see some representation of this family of fish. Many rockfish are very long lived, some over one hundred years and can attain a fairly hefty size, up to one meter long. They are generally a bottom dweller, often hiding among rocks and reefs, but some are mid water fish that form large schools. One of the characteristic features of rockfish are the dorsal, pelvic and anal fins equipped with very sharp spines that contain a trace of mildly toxic venom. Though not as toxic as their tropical counterparts (Stonefish and Lionfish), a jab from these spines can still be very uncomfortable.
One of the more common species of rockfish is the Quillback (Sebastes maliger). They can be easily identified by its high dorsal fin with deep notches between the spines, large mouth and compressed body. Colouring is brown and yellow with orange-brown speckling on the lower back. The fins are dark, except for a yellow streak through the spiny dorsal fin. Quillback's grow up to 60 cm (24 in.) in length and can live up to 95 years.
This species of rockfish range from Southern California to the western Gulf of Alaska. These fish are non-schooling members of the rockfish family. Quillback's are solitary and prefer to dwell in rocky outcroppings with boulder fields and crevices. These fish tend to hover just off the bottom and will dart for cover if disturbed. Quillbacks will often be found hiding in large cloud sponges or nestled inside boot sponges. They feed on benthic organisms, including brittle stars, chitons, and crustaceans such as crabs and shrimp. Quillbacks are most commonly found the sub tidal range however they have been observed as deep as 275 m (900 ft.)
Quillback Rockfish slightly shy and reclusive rockfish than other members of the rockfish family. Unlike some other rockfish these fish tend to swim away when approached by photographers and divers making it more difficult to get a great shot. They are not as inquisitive as China or Brown Rockfish. One way to capture a great image of Quillbacks is to find a Cloud or Boot Sponge. These fish love to hide in these various species of sponge and this is a great spot to get an image. they provide a great photographic opportunity. They present a great photographic opportunity and almost pose for an image. The colouration of the Quillback really lends itself to help produce a striking images if shot next to a vibrant yellow cloud sponge.
Diving with any fish takes patients, take your time find your fish and get the shot.
Thanks for reading
Scott
More images and stories - http://www.scottstevensonphotography.ca/
