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Goliath Grouper

Goliath grouper

Epinephelus itajara

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Fun Facts

Due to their slow growth and low reproduction rate, goliath groupers have experienced a population decline of at least 80% in the last ten years.

Species Type:

Fishes

Common Name(s):

Goliath grouper

Size:

These fish can grow to be over 8 feet (2.5 meters) long and weigh up to 800 pounds (363 kilograms).

Diet:

While mostly eating crustaceans like shrimp and crab, goliath groupers will also eat other fish, stingrays, octopus and even young sea turtles.

Range & Habitat:

The goliath grouper inhabits rock, mud and coral bottom areas in the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, eastern Pacific and western Atlantic ocean.

Details:

Goliath grouper are large fish with a rounded snout, small eyes and dark spots all over their body, blending them into their surroundings. These fish are very territorial, defending their grounds with aggressive body language and a rumbling sound when feeling threatened.