Dusky Grouper

Dusky Grouper

Epinephelus marginatus

Vulnerable
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DESCRIPTION

Each dusky grouper displays an intricate arrangement of pale markings across its face and around its eyes as distinct as a human fingerprint, allowing researchers to identify individual fish over decades without invasive tagging. To communicate and startle potential intruders, they can also contract specialized sonic muscles against their gas-filled swim bladder to generate resonant, low-frequency underwater booms.

Max Length 150 cm
Max Weight 60 kg
Lifespan 30 - 60 years
Habitat Seabed, underwater cave, coastal zone, and coral reef
Depth Range 8 - 300 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior Territorial
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Dusky Grouper

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Dusky Grouper

Range

Where Dusky Grouper has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Dusky Grouper

Where can you see the Dusky Grouper?

The Dusky Grouper can be seen at 9 dive destinations in Spain and South Africa. The best spots include Cabo de Palos (Spain), Medes Islands (Spain), Aliwal Shoal (South Africa), Balearic Islands (Spain), and Cabo de Gata (Spain).

What is the best time to see the Dusky Grouper?

Sightings of the Dusky Grouper peak at different times depending on the destination: Cabo de Palos from April to November, Medes Islands from April to November, Cabo de Gata from June to September, and Canary Islands from June to September.

Can you see the Dusky Grouper all year round?

Yes. At Balearic Islands, the Dusky Grouper is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Dusky Grouper in Spain?

In Spain, you can see the Dusky Grouper at Cabo de Palos, Medes Islands, Balearic Islands, Cabo de Gata, Canary Islands, and La Herradura.

Where can you see the Dusky Grouper in South Africa?

In South Africa, you can see the Dusky Grouper at Aliwal Shoal, False Bay, and Protea Banks.

How big does the Dusky Grouper get?

The Dusky Grouper can reach up to 150 cm in length and 60 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Dusky Grouper live in?

The Dusky Grouper is found in these habitats: seabed, underwater cave, coastal zone, and coral reef.

How deep does the Dusky Grouper live?

The Dusky Grouper lives between 8 and 300 m deep.

What does the Dusky Grouper eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

When is the Dusky Grouper most active?

Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.

How long does the Dusky Grouper live?

The Dusky Grouper lives 30 to 60 years.

What is the conservation status of the Dusky Grouper?

The Dusky Grouper is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Dusky Grouper. Spotted something that looks off?

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