Bank Sea Bass

BANK SEA BASS - Centropristis ocyurus Family Serranidae, SEA BASSES AND GROUPER

Description: pale olive or brassy-brown in color with indistinct black blotches that form vertical barrings (the blotch above pectoral fin darker); wavy blue lines on head; lips purplish-blue; caudal fin tri-lobed on adults; edge of nape unscaled.
Similar fish: rock sea bass, C. philadelphica; other Centropristis.
Where found: OFFSHORE in deep water with rocks and reefs.
Size: usually 0.3 pounds (8 inches).
Remarks: undergoes sex change, starting life as female, changing to male after three or four spawning seasons; feeds on the bottom, taking squid, crustaceans, and small fish.