Fin's Fish Guide
The Surge grouper (Epinephelus socialis) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 52 cm.
Description
The surge grouper is a grouper from the Indo-Pacific, mainly on remote islands. The species grows to about 52 cm and has a stocky, greyish-brown body with fine paler spots and faint bars. As a reef predator it lives in very shallow, turbulent water on reef flats and in the surge zone and hunts small fish and crustaceans. It is a local food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Surge grouper?
The Surge grouper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Grey-brown body with fine spots; surf-dwelling reef predator
Where does the Surge grouper live?
The Surge grouper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Surge grouper get?
The Surge grouper grows to a maximum of about 52 cm.
Is the Surge grouper dangerous to humans?
No, the Surge 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 Surge grouper edible?
Yes, the Surge 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 Surge grouper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Surge grouper is one of 12,519 species in the app.