Black Grouper
Scientific Name: Mycteroperca bonaci
These massive fish can reach lengths of 4 feet and weights of 180 pounds at maturity. They are common in temperate and tropical seas, and they are often caught commercially for their delicate, mild-tasting meat.
Characterized by brownish-grey bodies, black groupers are accented by brassy spots, rectangular patterns and black fin edges. They are relatively stocky and compact, with massive jaws and strong teeth.
Fun Facts:
- Much like chameleons, groupers camouflage themselves by changing colors to blend into their environments.
- Groupers also possess the ability to change sex as they age. Females often transform into males as reproductive needs dictate.
- Because the suction force of their jaws is so powerful, some groupers are able to ingest small prey by simply opening their mouths.
- The largest species of grouper in the world-the Goliath grouper-can reach lengths of over 8 feet and weights of up to 680lbs.
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