Family Serranidae, SEA BASSES AND GROUPER
Mycteroperca venenosa
Illustrations and Copyright by Diane Rome Peebles
Illustrations are for viewing purposes only. Description: color highly variable greenish olive or bright red with longitudinal rows of darker black blotches over entire fish; outer one third of pectoral fins bright yellow; lower parts of larger fish with small bright red spots.
Similar Fish: black grouper, M. bonaci; other grouper.
Where found: OFFSHORE on reefs off southern portions of Florida.
Size: common to 20 pounds.
*Florida Record: 34 lbs., 6 ozs.
Remarks: undergoes sex reversal from female to male in latter part of life; specific name translates to "venomous," alluding to the fact that this fish, perhaps more frequently than other groupers, is associated with ciguatera poisoning; feeds on fish and squid. Additional Info: Saltwater Fishing Regulations for Grouper
* The Florida records quoted are from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's printed publication, Fishing Lines and are not necessarily the most current ones. The records are provided as only as a benchmark.
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