Fin's Fish Guide
The Mottled grouper (Mycteroperca rubra) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 144 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic, above rocks, reefs and caves of shallow to moderately deep water.
Description
The mottled grouper is a robust grouper of the family Serranidae reaching about 1.4 metres. The stout, red-brown body is mottled with pale spots; juveniles have conspicuous pale longitudinal stripes on the head. The species lives over rocks, reefs and caves of the Mediterranean and the eastern Atlantic. As a territorial ambush hunter it seizes fish, squid and crustaceans. Like many groupers it is a protogynous hermaphrodite: it starts as a female and later becomes male. It grows slowly and matures late, which makes it sensitive to fishing; it is therefore assessed as Near Threatened (NT). The mottled grouper is a valued sport and food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mottled grouper?
The Mottled grouper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Large grouper with a marbled, reddish-brown body and pale blotches; juveniles have striking longitudinal stripes on the head.
Where does the Mottled grouper live?
The Mottled grouper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic, above rocks, reefs and caves of shallow to moderately deep water.
How big does the Mottled grouper get?
The Mottled grouper grows to a maximum of about 144 cm. On average the species is around 80 cm.
Is the Mottled grouper dangerous to humans?
No, the Mottled grouper is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Mottled grouper edible?
Yes, the Mottled grouper is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Mottled 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 Mycteroperca
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Mottled grouper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mottled grouper is one of 12,519 species in the app.