Distinguishing Characteristics |
Body deep, somewhat compressed, head slanting at a deep angle; color dark brown with distinct white spots (may also be pale brown with distinct white spots), large adults may lose white spots, especially after death; mouth large, lips thick; pectoral fin huge, longer than pelvic fin; anal fin pointed in adults; opercle with 3 flat spines, outer edge free; caudal fin rounded in small fish, squared or truncate in larger fish; scales are smooth to the touch. |
Similar Species |
Marbled groupers are distinguished from other groupers by their smooth scales, deep body with angular head and huge pectoral fins. |
Habitat |
Gulf, deeper waters |
Maximum Size |
91 cm (36 in), common to 50 cm (19 1/2 in) |
Fin Element Counts |
D. XI,19; A. III,9 (explain) |
Other Common Names |
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Previous Scientific Names |
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Comments |
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State size/bag limits |
None; Check for state record. |