Fin's Fish Guide
The Gulf grouper (Hyporthodus exsul) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 125 cm.
North America: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua and others
Description
The Gulf grouper is a grouper (Epinephelidae) from deeper reef and rocky water of the eastern Pacific, especially the Gulf of California. The species grows to about 60 cm and has a robust, stocky, grey-brown body with a large mouth. As a bottom-oriented ambush hunter it shelters by rocks, caves and wrecks and engulfs fish and crustaceans with a sudden, suction gulp. Through overfishing the species has declined strongly. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gulf grouper?
The Gulf grouper has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Gulf grouper live?
The Gulf grouper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. North America: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua and others
How big does the Gulf grouper get?
The Gulf grouper grows to a maximum of about 125 cm.
Is the Gulf grouper dangerous to humans?
No, the Gulf grouper 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 Gulf grouper edible?
The Gulf grouper is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Gulf grouper?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hyporthodus
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Gulf grouper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gulf grouper is one of 12,519 species in the app.