Gag Grouper

Mycteroperca microlepis

Managed by: NOAA Fisheries, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Regions

Southeast

Protected status

None

Also known as

GrouperCopper bellyCharcoal belly

Species Profile

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

FWC

Size

Up to 36 inches (50 pounds); common to 25 pounds

Similar species

Black grouper, M. bonaci (spur on preopercle is gently rounded, not serrated) Size: Up to 36 inches (50 pounds); common to 25 pounds

Appearance

Color brownish-gray with dark worm-like markings on sides
Bottom of preopercle (cheek) has strong serrated spur
Fins are dark, with white edges on anal fin and tail
Dark lines radiate from the eyes

Habitat

Coastal waters near structure such as rocky bottoms, reefs and drop-off walls in water over 60 feet deep. Juveniles found in estuaries and seagrass beds

Behavior

Born as females but can later become male. Gag and red grouper are the most widely distributed of the Florida groupers. Goliath and Nassau grouper are protected from harvest in Florida waters. Spawn between January and May with some of the more tropical species spawning year-round. Feed on fishes and invertebrates.

Additional information

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Seafood Profile

NOAA FishWatch

Population

The Gulf of America* (formerly Gulf of Mexico) and South Atlantic stocks are overfished. The fishing rate established under rebuilding plans for these stocks promotes population growth.

Fishing rate

The Gulf of America stock is not subject to overfishing. The South Atlantic stock is reduced to end overfishing.

Bycatch

Regulations are in place to minimize bycatch.

Taste

Mild but distinct flavor, somewhere between bass and halibut.

Texture

Firm, moist, and flaky.

Color

White when both raw and cooked.

Health benefits

Grouper is low in saturated fat. It is also a good source of vitamins B6 and B12, phosphorus, potassium, protein, and selenium.