Fin's Fish Guide
The Black gouper (Hyporthodus nigritus) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 230 cm.
Description
The Warsaw grouper is a very large grouper of the family Serranidae from the western Atlantic. The species grows to about 2.3 metres and can weigh hundreds of kilos; it has a robust, dark-brown body with a tall second dorsal spine. Adults live solitarily, usually on rocky bottoms and deep ledges well offshore; juveniles are sometimes found shallower. As an ambush predator it engulfs fishes, crabs and lobsters with its enormous mouth. The species grows slowly and becomes very old, making it vulnerable to overfishing, and is listed as Near Threatened (NT). Large specimens can contain ciguatera.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black gouper?
The Black gouper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Very large, long-lived grouper with a high second dorsal fin spine; near threatened (NT), large specimens pose a ciguatera risk.
Where does the Black gouper live?
The Black gouper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic; rocky bottoms and deep ledges far offshore.
How big does the Black gouper get?
The Black gouper grows to a maximum of about 230 cm.
Is the Black gouper dangerous to humans?
No, the Black gouper is harmless to humans. The flesh can contain ciguatera in tropical areas; do not eat large reef specimens from risk areas. In case of poisoning (tingling, gastrointestinal symptoms, temperature-reversal sensation), seek medical care.
Is the Black gouper edible?
Yes, the Black gouper is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hyporthodus
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Black gouper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black gouper is one of 12,519 species in the app.