Redtail surfperch

The redtail surfperch (Amphistichus rhodoterus) is a species of surfperch (Embiotocidae) that inhabits the near-shore and estuarine waters of North American Pacific coasts.

Redtail surfperch are one of three species in the genus Amphistichus (i.e. redtail, barred and calico surfperch), and one of six species in the subfamily (i.e. genera Amphistichus and Hyperprosopon).

Distribution

Redtail surfperch are common along sandy ocean beaches and jetties year-round; these fish are found up-bay in estuaries seasonally, commonly during spring. Redtail surfperch are distributed from Avila Beach, California to Hope Island, B.C., and are the only New World marine surfperch that does not inhabit Southern and Baja California waters.