Smallscale Blackfish

Girella punctata

The Smallscale Blackfish is a reef-associated species found in the temperate waters of the Northwest Pacific. Its range extends from southern Hokkaido in Japan southward to Taiwan and the East China Sea, excluding the Ryukyu Islands. This species inhabits rocky reefs in coastal areas and is known to be oceanodromous. Juvenile Smallscale Blackfish often associate with drifting seaweed, which provides them with both food and protection. Divers encountering the Smallscale Blackfish are likely to find them at shallow depths, as records show that 90% of sightings occur at depths shallower than 10 meters, with none deeper than 40 meters. The fish can grow up to 50 cm in total length. The conservation status of the Smallscale Blackfish has not been evaluated by the IUCN. It poses no threat to humans and is considered harmless. The species is utilized in commercial fisheries and is also sought after as a game fish.