Fin's Fish Guide
The Goldblotch grouper (Epinephelus costae) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 140 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, on rocky bottoms, reefs and stony slopes of shallow to moderately deep water.
Description
The goldblotch grouper is a robust, elongate grouper of the family Serranidae reaching about 1.4 metres. The grey-brown body is often scattered with small golden spots and, in younger fish, bears a few pale lengthwise stripes on the upper back. Like many groupers the species is a protogynous hermaphrodite: individuals begin as females and may later turn into males. It lives on rocky bottoms, reefs and stony slopes of the Mediterranean and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, where it defends a territory and ambushes fish, squid and crustaceans. The goldblotch grouper is a valued sport and food fish; through its slow growth and fishing pressure its status is Data Deficient (DD).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Goldblotch grouper?
The Goldblotch grouper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Large, elongated grouper with a grey-brown body, often with small golden spots and a few pale longitudinal stripes on the upper back.
Where does the Goldblotch grouper live?
The Goldblotch grouper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, on rocky bottoms, reefs and stony slopes of shallow to moderately deep water.
How big does the Goldblotch grouper get?
The Goldblotch grouper grows to a maximum of about 140 cm.
Is the Goldblotch grouper dangerous to humans?
No, the Goldblotch grouper is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Goldblotch grouper edible?
Yes, the Goldblotch grouper is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Goldblotch grouper and live in the same waters.
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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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