TP generally >12inches, green to lue-green and occasionally orange. IP typically between 5 and 12 inches, yellow to orange or orangish brown. Occasional S. California.
Two distinct color phases, terminal and initial. Older TPs develop a bulbous limp on nape. Occasional to uncommon central California; formally common but numbers greatly reduced by overfishing, especially spearfishing of large TP.
Mottled, spotted and blotched in rich shades of brown with occasional white spots. Occasional S. California to SE Alaska.
Numerous dark spots and several darkish blotches. Can lighten and darken with background. After mating, males guard masses of white eggs; guarding males often dark black. Occasional Alaska through California.
Pair of small cirri above eyes and another tiny pair between eyes and dorsal fin. Five lateral lines. Abundant to common Alaska to central California, rare S. California.
Undercolor pale, red bars often shaded with brown. Mature males often turn nearly black during winter mating season. Occasional southern California to BC.
Blotched, barred and striped in shades of red to maroon, lavender, orange, tan; tiny white to pale spots cover body; color change to match background. Abundant around islands in S. California; occasional coastal areas in S. California.
Color and markings vary greatly, includes shades of yellow. Common S. California, rare to the north.
Foredorsal fin tall, especially in males. Rear body bars thinner. Abundant to common S. and central California.