Fin's Fish Guide
The Deady (Epinephelus guttatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 76 cm.
Description
The red hind is a grouper (family Serranidae) of the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 76 cm and has a robust, pale body covered with red-brown spots. It lives on shallow reefs and rocky bottoms, is usually solitary and territorial, and feeds mainly on crabs and other crustaceans, supplemented by fishes. Like many groupers the species is a protogynous hermaphrodite that begins as a female and may later change into a male; it forms spawning aggregations. It is a highly prized commercial and sport fish. In some areas the flesh can contain ciguatera.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Deady?
The Deady has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Protogynous hermaphrodite that starts as a female; forms spawning aggregations; prone to ciguatera in some areas.
Where does the Deady live?
The Deady lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean, on shallow reefs and rocky bottoms.
How big does the Deady get?
The Deady grows to a maximum of about 76 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Deady dangerous to humans?
The Deady is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The flesh can contain ciguatera in some tropical areas; do not eat large reef specimens from risk areas. In case of poisoning (tingling, gastrointestinal symptoms) seek medical advice.
Is the Deady edible?
Yes, the Deady 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 Deady?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Deady is one of 12,519 species in the app.