(Poey, 1860); SERRANIDAE FAMILY; also called
black rockfish, marbled rockfish
Black grouper are perhaps the largest
species of Mycteroperca in the Atlantic.
They can be found on offshore wrecks and
reefs in Bermuda, Florida, the southern Gulf
of Mexico, Caribbean, down to southern
Brazil in the south Atlantic. Coloration in
black grouper can vary, but their sides
typically exhibit a rectangular pattern of
dark grey blotches. The edges of the second
dorsal, caudal, and anal fins are also dark
black. Juveniles feed mainly on crustaceans,
while adult fish prefer fish.
Like other grouper, when hooked black
grouper are dogged opponents that must be
turned quickly before they retreat to cover.
They will take a variety of natural and
artificial baits, and are considered
outstanding table fare
