Fin's Fish Guide
The Calico grouper (Epinephelus drummondhayi) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 110 cm.
Description
The speckled hind is a large grouper from the western Atlantic, ranging from Bermuda and the east coast of the United States to the northern and eastern Gulf of Mexico. It grows to about 110 cm, can weigh thirty kilograms and live up to 45 years. The reddish-brown body is covered with numerous small white spots, from which it takes its name. It lives over offshore rocky bottoms between about 25 and 180 metres depth and hunts fish and crustaceans. Like most groupers the species is a protogynous hermaphrodite. Because of overfishing and its slow reproduction it is listed as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Calico grouper?
The Calico grouper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Red-brown with numerous white spots; long-lived (up to 45 years); protogynous hermaphrodite
Where does the Calico grouper live?
The Calico grouper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic
How big does the Calico grouper get?
The Calico grouper grows to a maximum of about 110 cm.
Is the Calico grouper dangerous to humans?
No, the Calico 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 Calico grouper edible?
Yes, the Calico grouper is a highly prized food fish.
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 Calico grouper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Calico grouper is one of 12,519 species in the app.