COMMON MARINE FISHES 



51 



Figure 24 



Photo by Al Johns for 

 Vernon HL Haden, San Pedro 



BLACK SEA BASS 

 Stereolepis gigas 



Relationship: Belongs to the sea bass family, Serranidae, as do the striped, 

 kelp, sand and spotted sand basses. 



Distinguishing Characters: The two dorsal fins with more spines (normally 

 11) than rays (normally 10) ; the dorsal spines shorter than the dorsal rays in the 

 adult; the pectoral fins reaching beyond the ventral fins in the adult; the presence of 

 teeth on the vomer. Length to seven feet or more and weight to 500 or GOO pounds. 

 Co#)r: Dark brown to blackish above, somewhat naler below. Young: The young are 

 very different in both shape and color. In specimens about an inch long the spiny 

 dorsal is higher than the soft, the body is nearly as deep as it is long, and the ventral-; 

 are longer than the pectorals. The body is brick red with distinct brownish or blackish 

 spots. As the fish grows it gradually takes on the typical adult appearance. 



Distribution: Central California at the Farallon Islands south to Magdalena 

 Bay, Lower California. Uncommon north of Pt. Conception. A bottom fish usually 

 found close to shore. 



Fishing Season: Throughout the year. 



Importance: A minor Southern California market species. The great bulk of the 

 catch is made in Lower California waters with heaviest landings at Los Angeles. A 

 popular game fish. 



Fishing Gear: Hook and line ; set lines. 



Unauthorized Names: Jewfish, giant bass. 



