Calico Surfperch

Amphistichus koelzi

The Calico Surfperch, also known as the Humpback Perch or Porgee, is a species native to the Eastern Pacific Ocean, particularly along the west coast of the United States from Washington to Central Baja California. Divers can identify this fish by its distinctive body shape, which is deep and oval, often described as disc-like. It features a silvery body with brassy tones, a bluish or olivaceous back, and reddish tinges on the lower head and anterior body. The sides are adorned with brown speckles forming rough vertical bars. A notable characteristic is the notch between the dorsal soft and hard rays, with both types of rays being of equal length. This species inhabits the surf zone, often forming small schools in sandy, shallow waters. It can also be found around rocky reefs and artificial structures like piers, at depths up to 9 meters. The Calico Surfperch is a demersal feeder, primarily consuming benthic invertebrates such as mole crabs, gammarid zooplankton, shrimp, clams, and mussels. Reproductively, it is viviparous, giving birth to live, developed young, and can live up to 6 years. Divers might encounter these fish in areas with sandy bottoms or near piers. Although there is no large-scale commercial fishery for this species, it is a common catch among recreational anglers. The IUCN lists the Calico Surfperch as Least Concern.