Fin's Fish Guide
The White-dotted grouper (Epinephelus polystigma) is a brackish-water fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 48 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Solomon Is., Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Andaman Is.
Description
The White-dotted grouper is a grouper (Epinephelidae) from reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a robust, white to brown with numerous small white spots 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 White-dotted grouper?
The White-dotted grouper has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly white.
Where does the White-dotted grouper live?
The White-dotted grouper lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Solomon Is., Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Andaman Is.
How big does the White-dotted grouper get?
The White-dotted grouper grows to a maximum of about 48 cm.
Is the White-dotted grouper dangerous to humans?
No, the White-dotted 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 White-dotted grouper edible?
The White-dotted grouper is rarely eaten.
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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 White-dotted grouper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the White-dotted grouper is one of 12,519 species in the app.