Heterostichus rostratus Girard, 1854
Giant kelpfish
Heterostichus rostratus
photo by Steele, M.A.

Family:  Clinidae (Clinids)
Max. size:  61 cm TL (male/unsexed); max. reported age: 4 years
Environment:  demersal; marine; depth range 0 - 40 m
Distribution:  Eastern Pacific: California, USA to southern Baja California, Mexico including Guadalupe Island.
Diagnosis:   
Biology:  Occurs in intertidal and to 40 m (Ref. 96339). Found among rocks with large seaweeds, often in kelp. Young occur in schools while adults are solitary. Feeds on small crustaceans, mollusks and small fishes. Female attaches eggs to seaweeds, male guards them.
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 04 May 2010 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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