| REEF FISH |
Epinephelus itajara
Credit: Illustration by Diane Rome Peebles
Family Serranidae
Description: head and fins covered with small black spots; irregular dark vertical bars present on the sides of body; pectoral and caudal fin rounded; first dorsal fin shorter than not separated from second dorsal; adults huge, up to 800 pounds; eyes small
Similar fish: other grouper
Where found: nearshore around docks, in deep holes, and on ledges; young often occur in estuaries, especially around oyster bars; more abundant in southern Florida than in northern waters
Size: largest of the grouper
Remarks: spawns over summer months; lifespan of 30 to 50 years; feeds on crustaceans and fish.
NOTE: Goliath Grouper are protected from harvest by law in Florida waters. Do not attempt to harvest
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