At five months old, juvenile giant sea bass are bright gold with black spots and huge black pelvic fins—almost unrecognizable as the huge slate-grey fish they’ll become. 

We’re working with several giant sea bass researchers to learn how these fish change as they grow—especially to see if their spot pattern stays the same throughout their life. That would be handy to know to recognize individuals in the wild!

The critically endangered giant sea bass (Stereolepis gigas) has a special place in our hearts. We’re currently housing six giant sea bass—from miniscule juveniles to a 230 pound 30 year old—as a part of a long-term growth study. And exciting news: one of our juveniles just graduated up to a bigger exhibit!

Felicitations, young giant sea bass!

Hanging with the cool kids in the Kelp Holdfast exhibit.

They grow up so fast! Here’s what this fish looked like as a one-month-old baby giant sea bass, just under an inch long:

Baby giant sea bass at one month and less than an inch long!

And it’s still got got a ways to go! Check out the 230 pound 30-year-old in our Monterey Bay Habitats exhibit:

Our Monterey Bay Habitats giant sea bass isn’t done growing either. Giant sea bass can grow to over 500 pounds! 

Giant sea bass are critically endangered due to overfishing, but are starting to make a comeback thanks to protection by the state of California. By displaying giant sea bass here at the Aquarium, we hope to share their story with our guests and inspire conservation of these gentle giants.

Learn more about giant sea bass at the Monterey Bay Aquarium:

Giant sea bass hold a special place in our hearts here at the Aquarium—and they’re especially dear to aquarist Kevin Lewand. Kevin is practically part fish himself, growing up in and around the ocean, surfing and fishing from a young age. He’s seen first-hand the demise of the giant sea bass—and is now working hard for its recovery.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium houses several giant sea bass ranging from 30 years to just one month old. By studying them at different stages, Kevin hopes to discover the age and size at which these fish become sexually mature, and to track how individuals change over time. This research will help strengthen the laws protecting giant sea bass. Kevin’s passion for these incredible fish is as strong as the mighty sea bass itself. Don’t take our word for it—check out our interview with Kevin here:

This swimming snail’s rhythmic flapping and graceful movements resemble whimsical wings. The flappy bits you see sculling through the water aren’t wings at all—they’re basically a modified, slimy snail foot. 

And despite its celestial appearance—the sea angel is a carnivorous hunter. With hidden tentacles tucked away inside its head, it tracks down prey and strikes!