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Nassau Grouper

ESA Threatened; SPAW Annex III
Epinephelus striatus
Managed by: NOAA Fisheries, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Regions
Southeast
Protected status
ESA Threatened; SPAW Annex III
Also known as
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Species Profile

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

FWC
Size
Up to 36 inches (55 pounds); common under 10 pounds
Similar species
Red grouper, E. morio (has tiny dark spots near eyes) Size: Up to 36 inches (55 pounds); common under 10 pounds
Appearance
  • Body with brown or red-brown bars on sides and a light background
  • Stripe on top of head in the shape of a tuning-fork
  • No dots around the eyes
  • Third spine of dorsal fin is longer than second spine
  • Pelvic fins are shorter than pectoral fins
  • Large black spot on caudal peduncle
Habitat
Coastal waters, mostly in south Florida. Juveniles found nearshore and adults occur in deeper waters near structure. Somewhat site specific.
Behavior
Form large spawning aggregations, making this species highly vulnerable to overharvest. Feeds on fishes and invertebrates.
Additional information
State Record:Recreational RegulationsSee a full list of our Social Media accountsSubscribe:AboutThe CommissionCommission MeetingsWildlife AlertCalendar of EventsOutlook E-mailLimited English Proficiency PlanOffice of Supplier DevelopmentAmericans with DisabilitiesEEO/AAPrivacy StatementSitemap2025 Agency Regulatory Plan

Seafood Profile

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

NOAA FishWatch
No FishWatch seafood profile is available for this species yet.
Sources
Image credit: NOAA Fisheries