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Nassau Grouper

Epinephelus striatus

Listing Status

  • Federal Status: Threatened
  • FL Status: Federally-designated Threatened
  • FNAI Ranks: Not ranked
  • IUCN Status: CR (Critically Endangered)

Appearance

Illustration of a Nassau grouper
  • Body with brown or red-brown bars on sides and a light background
  • Stripe on top of head in the shape of a tuning-fork
  • No dots around the eyes
  • Third spine of dorsal fin is longer than second spine
  • Pelvic fins are shorter than pectoral fins
  • Large black spot on caudal peduncle

Similar Species: Red grouper, E. morio (has tiny dark spots near eyes)

Size: Up to 36 inches (55 pounds); common under 10 pounds

Habitat

Coastal waters, mostly in south Florida. Juveniles found nearshore and adults occur in deeper waters near structure. Somewhat site specific.  

Behavior

Form large spawning aggregations, making this species highly vulnerable to overharvest.

Feeds on fishes and invertebrates.

Additional Information

State Record: 9 lb, caught near Marathon Key (2007)

Fishing Tips and Facts: All harvest of this species is prohibited.

Recreational Regulations

 

Image Credit: © Diane Rome Peebles