Fin's Fish Guide
The Brownspotted grouper (Epinephelus chlorostigma) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 80 cm.
Description
The brownspotted grouper is a grouper (Serranidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a robust, light-brown body densely covered with numerous round brown spots. It occurs in a range of habitats, from seagrass beds and mud bottoms to outer reef slopes. As a predator it takes fishes and crustaceans. Like many groupers it is protogynous: females can change into males. Harmless to handle, but large animals may contain ciguatera toxin.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brownspotted grouper?
The Brownspotted grouper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Densely scattered with small round brown blotches; protogynous grouper, large fish a ciguatera risk.
Where does the Brownspotted grouper live?
The Brownspotted grouper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; varied habitats.
How big does the Brownspotted grouper get?
The Brownspotted grouper grows to a maximum of about 80 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Brownspotted grouper dangerous to humans?
No, the Brownspotted grouper is harmless to humans. Harmless to handle, but large individuals from reef areas can accumulate ciguatera toxin in the flesh; do not eat large animals from risk areas. Seek medical care for gastrointestinal symptoms and tingling after consumption.
Is the Brownspotted grouper edible?
Yes, the Brownspotted 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 Brownspotted grouper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brownspotted grouper is one of 12,519 species in the app.