Kelp bass

Biology

The young kelp bass inhabits kelp forests where it seeks protection. As it develops, becoming less susceptible to predation, it goes deeper into the ocean away from kelp and closer to rocks, pipelines and oil platforms. Its colours also change with age: juveniles are brown while adults are olive-green. Males are distinguished from females by an orange tint to their lower jaw.

Conservation

For several years, the kelp bass was one of the most popular recreational fishing species. However, since 1950 it is a protected species in California where its commercial fishing has been prohibited.

Curiosities

This bass can live up to 33 years.