Fin's Fish Guide
The Threespot grouper (Epinephelus trimaculatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea (North), Korea (South) and others
Description
The Threespot grouper is a grouper (Epinephelidae) from reef water of the northwest Pacific, off East Asia. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a robust, brown with three dark saddle marks along the back body with a large mouth. As a bottom-oriented ambush hunter it shelters among rocks and coral and engulfs fish and crustaceans with a sudden suction strike. Like many groupers a female changes sex on loss of the male. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Threespot grouper?
The Threespot grouper has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Threespot grouper live?
The Threespot 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 (North), Korea (South) and others
How big does the Threespot grouper get?
The Threespot grouper grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Threespot grouper dangerous to humans?
No, the Threespot 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 Threespot grouper edible?
Yes, the Threespot 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 Threespot grouper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Threespot grouper is one of 12,519 species in the app.