Starry Grouper

Epinephelus labriformis

The Starry Grouper is a sturdy fish found in the warm waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean, stretching from Mexico down to Peru, including the islands of Galápagos, Cocos, and Revillagigedo. It features an olive green to reddish-brown body with a pattern of irregular white and brown spots. A notable black mark can be seen on the upper part of its tail base. The dorsal fin consists of 11 spines and 16 to 18 soft rays, while the anal fin has 3 spines and 8 soft rays. Its mouth is red inside, and it can reach a length of 60 cm. This species thrives in rocky and coral reef environments within coastal waters, typically found at depths between 1 and 50 meters. It is most commonly seen in shallower waters but can be found as deep as 30 meters. As a solitary predator, the Starry Grouper preys on small fish during daylight hours and shifts to feeding on crustaceans at night. Reproduction occurs in the late summer months. Divers might encounter the Starry Grouper as a lone figure on the reef, often moving independently. Its conservation status is classified as Least Concern, and it is a sought-after species for local fisheries along the Pacific coast of Mexico and in the Gulf of California.