Warsaw Grouper: Epinephelus nigritus

Appearance:

uniformly dark brown, with no distinct markings; dorsal fin with 10 spines; second spine very long (much longer than third); caudal fin squared-off; rear nostril larger than front nostril; young have yellow caudal fin with dark saddle on caudal peduncle; some whitish spots on body

Habitat:

deep rocky ledges and sea mounts, in 90-300 m (300-1000 ft). Young are sometimes caught in inshore waters.

Behavior:

State Record:

436 lb 12 oz, caught near Destin

Fishing Tips and Facts:

Size: to 1.8 m (6 ft.) and 263 kg (580 lbs)

Additional Information:

Image Credit: Diane Rome Peebles