Epinephelus malabaricus

(Bloch & Schneider, 1801)

Vernacular names
English : Malabar grouper
French : Mérou de Malabar

Classification
Class : Teleostei
Order : Perciformes
Family : Serranidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
Huge species, reaching up to 2,34 m in length for a weight up to 150 kg. Very wide mouth, gently sloping head profile. Coloration light beige to grey with black dots all around body and five slightly oblique H-shaped dark markings on flanks.

Range and habitat
This species occurs in the Indo-Pacific area from Red Sea and East Africa to Fiji, north to south Japan, south to north Australia. Lives in coral and rocky reefs, mangroves, muddy areas, down to 150 meters deep.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not Listed
Status : The species has a huge range but is overexploited in many parts of it, causing declines. Effective population management necessary for its survival.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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