The giant sea bass (Stereolepis gigas) is a fish native to the North Pacific Ocean. Although commonly referred to as a giant sea bass, black sea bass or giant black sea bass, it is actually a wreckfish in the family Polyprionidae rather than in the sea bass family Serranidae. Giant sea bass reaching a size of 8.2 feet (2.5 m) and a weight of up to 562 pounds (255 kg) have been reported. However, in Charles F. Holder book The Channel Islands of California, published in 1910, the author claims specimens taken from the Gulf of California attained 800 pounds (360 kg). Aside from its tremendous size, the giant sea bass is also known for its lengthy lifespan. They mature around the age of 11 or 12, around the weight of 50 pounds (23 kg). However, some of the largest specimens have been known to exceed 7 ft, and are estimated to be 75 years or older. In the eastern North Pacific, its range is from Humboldt Bay, California, to the Gulf of California, Mexico, most common from Point Conception southward. In the northwestern Pacific it occurs around Japan. It usually stays near kelp forests, drop-offs, or rocky bottoms and sand or mudflats. Juvenile giant sea bass can be found at depths around 69 feet (21 m), with adults of the species found at depths below 66 feet (20 m). Juveniles of the species are brightly colored in red or orange, however as individuals of the species mature they take on more muddled colors of gray or brown.
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