Fin's Fish Guide
The Charcoal belly (Mycteroperca microlepis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 145 cm.
Description
The gag grouper is a large grouper (family Serranidae) of the western Atlantic. The species can reach about 1.45 metres and has a streamlined, grey-brown body with fine, worm-like markings and sometimes a dark belly. Juveniles grow up in estuaries and seagrass beds, while adults live on rocky bottoms farther offshore. It is an important predatory and sport fish feeding on fishes and crustaceans. Like many groupers the species begins life as a female and later changes into a male, forming spawning aggregations. Owing to fishing pressure it is assessed as Vulnerable (VU).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Charcoal belly?
The Charcoal belly has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Worm-like markings; forms spawning shoals and changes from female to male.
Where does the Charcoal belly live?
The Charcoal belly lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic, from the northeast coast of the USA to Brazil.
How big does the Charcoal belly get?
The Charcoal belly grows to a maximum of about 145 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Charcoal belly dangerous to humans?
No, the Charcoal belly 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 Charcoal belly edible?
Yes, the Charcoal belly 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 Mycteroperca
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Charcoal belly?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Charcoal belly is one of 12,519 species in the app.