Fin's Fish Guide
The Hong Kong grouper (Epinephelus akaara) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 58 cm.
Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea (South), Viet Nam and others
Description
The Hong Kong grouper is a grouper (Epinephelidae) from the northwest Pacific, off East Asia. The species grows to about 58 cm and has a robust, stocky body with a large mouth. The red-brown body is scattered with orange and dark spots. As a bottom-oriented ambush predator it shelters in crevices, caves and wrecks of coral and rocky reefs and engulfs fish and crustaceans. Many groupers change sex. It is a valued food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hong Kong grouper?
The Hong Kong grouper has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Hong Kong grouper live?
The Hong Kong grouper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea (South), Viet Nam and others
How big does the Hong Kong grouper get?
The Hong Kong grouper grows to a maximum of about 58 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Hong Kong grouper dangerous to humans?
No, the Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong grouper edible?
Yes, the Hong Kong grouper is commonly eaten.
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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
Want the complete picture on the Hong Kong grouper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hong Kong grouper is one of 12,519 species in the app.