COMMON MARINE FISHES 91 



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Figure 63 



HALFMOON 



Medialuna californiensis 



Relationship: The only member of family Scorpidae in oui* waters. 



Distinguishing Characters: The soft portions of the dorsal and anal tins which 

 are so covered with scales that the rays are hidden ; the spiny and soft portions of the 

 dorsal fin being connected, with the spines shorter than the first soft rays ; the anal 

 fin with three spines and usually 19 or 20 soft rays. Length to about a foot. Color: 

 Slaty black with a bluish luster, becoming whitish or mottled below. 



Distribution: Pt. Conception to central Lower California, usually along rocky 

 shores. 



Fishing Season: Caught irregularly throughout the year. 



Importance: Forms about 30 percent of the Southern California "perch" catch, 

 according to a survey made in 1935. Taken in relatively small numbers by sportsmen. 



Fishing Gear: Small round haul nets, hook and line, gill nets. 



Unauthorized Names: Blue perch, blue bass, medialuna. 



