Rock Hind Grouper

Epinephelus adscensionis

The rock hind grouper (Epinephelus adscensionis) is a medium-sized grouper reaching up to 61 cm. It has a tan to olive body densely covered with reddish-brown spots, with several larger dark blotches along the back and a distinctive saddle-like blotch on top of the caudal peduncle. Found in the western and eastern Atlantic from Massachusetts to Brazil and from Ascension Island to West Africa, it inhabits rocky reefs, coral heads, and ledges at depths of 2 to 120 meters. This territorial species often rests on rocky outcrops and ledges, relying on its spotted camouflage for protection. It feeds on crabs, fish, and octopus. Its accessible depth range and tendency to hold position on reef structures make it a commonly encountered and easily photographed grouper species on Caribbean and Atlantic dives.