Fin's Fish Guide
The Blacksaddle grouper (Epinephelus howlandi) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 55 cm.
Description
The blacksaddle grouper is a grouper from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 55 cm and has a stocky, brown body densely covered with fine dark and pale spots, with a conspicuous dark saddle blotch on the tail base. As a reef predator it shelters around coral and rocky reefs and hunts small fish and crustaceans. It is a valued food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blacksaddle grouper?
The Blacksaddle grouper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Fine spots and a dark saddle blotch on the tail; reef predator
Where does the Blacksaddle grouper live?
The Blacksaddle grouper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Blacksaddle grouper get?
The Blacksaddle grouper grows to a maximum of about 55 cm.
Is the Blacksaddle grouper dangerous to humans?
No, the Blacksaddle grouper is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Blacksaddle grouper edible?
Yes, the Blacksaddle grouper is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Epinephelus
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Blacksaddle grouper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blacksaddle grouper is one of 12,519 species in the app.