Fin's Fish Guide
The Golden grouper (Mycteroperca rosacea) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 86 cm.
Eastern Pacific, mainly the Gulf of California, on rocky reefs in shallow water to about 50 m.
Description
The leopard grouper is a large grouper (family Serranidae) of the eastern Pacific, mainly the Gulf of California. The species grows to about 86 cm and has a robust, brown-reddish body with numerous dark spots; a striking golden colour morph also exists. It prefers rocky areas in shallow water to about 50 m. Adults hunt schools of herrings and anchovies. Like many groupers the species is a protogynous hermaphrodite that begins as a female and forms large spawning aggregations. It is a prized commercial and sport fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Golden grouper?
The Golden grouper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Protogynous hermaphrodite that forms large spawning aggregations; hunts shoals of herring and anchovy; a golden-yellow colour form exists.
Where does the Golden grouper live?
The Golden grouper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific, mainly the Gulf of California, on rocky reefs in shallow water to about 50 m.
How big does the Golden grouper get?
The Golden grouper grows to a maximum of about 86 cm.
Is the Golden grouper dangerous to humans?
No, the Golden grouper is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Golden grouper edible?
Yes, the Golden grouper is commonly eaten.
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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 Golden grouper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Golden grouper is one of 12,519 species in the app.