Fin's Fish Guide
The Sawtail grouper (Mycteroperca prionura) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 105 cm.
Description
The sawtail grouper is a large grouper from the eastern Pacific, ranging from the Gulf of California to Jalisco in Mexico. The species grows to about 105 cm and has a streamlined, pale grey to brown body with a purplish tint and numerous small reddish-brown spots; the caudal fin has a scalloped, saw-like margin with extended rays. It lives on rocky reefs with boulders, gorgonians and black corals between 8 and 55 metres depth and hunts fish and crustaceans. Like most groupers the species is a protogynous hermaphrodite. It is a valued food fish. Owing to insufficient data the IUCN lists the species as Data Deficient (DD).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sawtail grouper?
The Sawtail grouper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Serrated, saw-like tail edge; protogynous hermaphrodite
Where does the Sawtail grouper live?
The Sawtail grouper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Sawtail grouper get?
The Sawtail grouper grows to a maximum of about 105 cm.
Is the Sawtail grouper dangerous to humans?
No, the Sawtail 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 Sawtail grouper edible?
Yes, the Sawtail grouper is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
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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 Sawtail grouper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sawtail grouper is one of 12,519 species in the app.