Helicolenus dactylopterus (Delaroche, 1809)
Rockfish
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Helicolenus dactylopterus is a bottom living fish, recorded on the continental shelf between depths of 200 and 1000 m. It is widely distributed within the study area from northern Norway south to the Mediterranean. Reproduction in southern waters is between November and December (Whitehead et al., 1986b).
As a member of the scorpion fish family, Helicolenus dactylopterus is a robust fish with a large spiny head. The dorsal fin contains 11 to 13 spines, with the anal fin containing a further three. The colour is variable. However, in general, back and sides are red with a series of dark bands on the dorsal surface, and a pink ventral surface. Length is usually about 20 cm but ranges up to 44 cm (Whitehead et al., 1986b).
Helicolenus dactylopterus appears to be of some commercial importance in the study area.
There is more information available for this species in FishBase.
Prepared by: Ecological Consultancy Services Ltd www.ecoserve.ie