Fish · GBIF taxon 2388507
Dusky Grouper
Epinephelus marginatusAlso known as Yellowbelly Rock Cod, Yellowbelly Grouper, Mediterranean Grouper
Dusky groupers are heavy-bodied, solitary predators that command rocky reefs and submarine caves across the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts. Born as females, mature individuals transition to males later in life, occupying defended territories for decades. Their large mouths generate strong suction to swallow prey whole, making them essential apex controllers of rocky coastal ecosystems.
MarineSolitaryReef Dweller
—observations
—countries
—peak records
VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Octopus
- Crabs
- Reef Fish
Predators
- Sharks
- Humans
ThreatsOverfishing, spearfishing, habitat destruction, slow growth and late maturation
HabitatsRocky reefs, underwater caves, coastal shelves (8–300 m depth)
Life spanUp to 50 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilySerranidae
- SpeciesEpinephelus marginatus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance while diving or snorkeling.
- What to notice
- Recognized by a massive head, mottled dark reddish-brown to olive body with yellow patches, and rounded tail fin.
- Support conservation
- Maintain a respectful distance while diving, do not corner individuals inside crevices, and report illegal spearfishing in protected marine reserves.
Responsible observation
- Dive quietly: Approach slowly without sudden movements, as groupers retreat quickly into rocky crevices when startled.
- Keep cave entrances clear: Avoid blocking cave openings or overhangs where groupers rest or seek cover.
- Avoid using dive lights directly: Shine lights adjacent to the fish rather than directly in its eyes.
Key Prey albert kok / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
Frequent Companion Close Relative Close Relative
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