The Dungat grouper (Epinephelus goreensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 140 cm.
Description
The Dungat grouper is a large, robust grouper of the family Serranidae reaching about 1.4 metres. The sturdy, brown-grey body with a faint blotchy pattern has a broad mouth; the tail is rounded. The species lives near rocky bottoms of the deeper continental shelf along the West African coast, from Mauritania and Senegal to Angola. As an ambush predator it darts from cover at passing fish, crustaceans and squid and sucks them in with a wide-gaping mouth. Like many groupers it is a protogynous hermaphrodite: individuals begin as females and may later become males. Through fishing it has declined and is assessed as Near Threatened (NT).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dungat grouper?
The Dungat grouper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Dungat grouper live?
The Dungat grouper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Dungat grouper get?
The Dungat grouper grows to a maximum of about 140 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Dungat grouper dangerous to humans?
No, the Dungat grouper is harmless to humans.
Is the Dungat grouper edible?
Yes, the Dungat grouper is a highly prized food fish.
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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
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