Distinguishing Characteristics |
Body deep and somewhat compressed; color dark reddish brown; no spots except in young; no dark blotch on caudal peduncle; juveniles with yellow caudal fin; nostrils nearly equal in size; mouth large, preopercle margin angular, but rounded and serrated at angle; lips thick; opercle with 3 flat spines, outer edge free; pelvic fin slightly longer than pectoral fin; dorsal spines 10, membrane between spines deeply notched; scales rough to the touch; caudal fin truncate (nearly vertical straight edge) or slightly rounded. |
Similar Species |
Warsaw grouper is the only grouper with 10 spines (others have 9 or 11); also 2nd dorsal spine longer than rest of spines (in others 2nd spine shorter or nearly equal to 3rd spine); differs from the snowy grouper by having a steeper mouth angle and maxilla (upper jaw) does not extend past the eye. |
Habitat |
Gulf, deeper waters, rocky ledges, sea mounts |
Maximum Size |
180 cm (6 ft) |
Fin Element Counts |
D. X,13-15(usually 14); A. III,9 (explain) |
Other Common Names |
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Previous Scientific Names |
Epinephelus nigritus |
Comments |
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State size/bag limits |
None; Check for state record. |