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Black Grouper

Mycteroperca bonaci
Managed by: NOAA Fisheries, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Regions
New England/Mid-AtlanticSoutheast
Protected status
None
Also known as
GrouperBlackfin grouperMarbled rockfish

Species Profile

Florida saltwater profile data (FWC). Availability and detail varies by species.

FWC
Size
Up to 48 inches (180 pounds); common to 40 pounds
Similar species
Gag, M. microlepis (spur on preopercle is serrated); and yellowfin grouper, M. venenosa (pectoral fins trimmed in bright yellow) Size: Up to 48 inches (180 pounds); common to 40 pounds
Appearance
  • Color olive or gray with rectangular black blotches and brassy spots
  • Bottom of preopercle (cheek) is gently-rounded
  • Second dorsal, anal and caudal fins black on outer third part of fin
  • Pale yellow or white margin on pectoral fins
Habitat
Coastal waters near structure. Juveniles can be found inshore. Adults are associated with rocky bottoms, reef, and drop off walls in water over 60 feet deep.
Behavior
Spawn during the winter months. They are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning that young predominantly female who transform into males as they grow larger. Larger individuals of this species are generally found in greater depths and they feed on fish and squid.
Additional information
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Seafood Profile

Powered by NOAA FishWatch data. Availability and detail varies by species.

NOAA FishWatch
Population
The Gulf of America/South Atlantic stock is not overfished.
Fishing rate
Not subject to overfishing.
Bycatch
Regulations are in place to minimize bycatch.
Taste
Grouper has a mild but distinct flavor, somewhere between bass and halibut. Gag is sometimes mistakenly referred to as black grouper in the market. The two species are very similar in taste and texture.
Texture
Firm and flaky.
Health benefits
Grouper is low in saturated fat. It is a good source of vitamins B6 and B12, phosphorus, potassium, protein and selenium.
Sources
Image credit: NOAA Fisheries/Jack Hornady