Fin's Fish Guide
The Donkey fish (Dermatolepis inermis) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 91 cm.
Description
The marbled grouper is a large grouper from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 91 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed body with a marbled pattern of pale spots on a dark ground. As a shy reef predator it shelters around reefs, wrecks and caves and hunts small fish and crustaceans. It is a valued food fish, but in large specimens there is a ciguatera risk. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Donkey fish?
The Donkey fish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Marble-like blotched pattern; shy reef predator with a ciguatera risk
Where does the Donkey fish live?
The Donkey fish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic
How big does the Donkey fish get?
The Donkey fish grows to a maximum of about 91 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Donkey fish dangerous to humans?
No, the Donkey fish 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 Donkey fish edible?
The Donkey fish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dermatolepis
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Donkey fish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Donkey fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.