Fin's Fish Guide
The Olive grouper (Epinephelus cifuentesi) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Description
The olive grouper is a large grouper from the eastern Pacific, around the Galapagos Islands, Isla del Coco and off Costa Rica. The species grows to about 100 cm and has a stocky, pale brown body with a greenish sheen and dark fins. As a bottom-dweller it lives on deeper rocky reefs between about 40 and 120 metres and hunts fish and crustaceans. Like other groupers it is a protogynous hermaphrodite. It is a valued sport and food fish; the Galapagos population was earlier considered vulnerable. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Olive grouper?
The Olive grouper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Deep-reef-dwelling grouper; protogynous hermaphrodite
Where does the Olive grouper live?
The Olive grouper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Olive grouper get?
The Olive grouper grows to a maximum of about 100 cm.
Is the Olive grouper dangerous to humans?
No, the Olive 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 Olive grouper edible?
Yes, the Olive grouper is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Olive grouper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Olive grouper is one of 12,519 species in the app.