Dry Tortugas Fish Identification
Black Grouper
Family Serranidae, SEA BASSES AND GROUPER
Mycteroperca bonaci
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Description: olive or gray body coloration with black blotches and brassy spots; gently rounded preopercle.
Similar Fish: gag M. microlepis; yellowfin grouper, M. venenosa.
Found in The Dry Tortugas: adults associated with rocky bottoms, reef, and drop off walls in water.
Size: typical 8-10 pounds can reach weights over 60+
Florida Record: no Florida record because of identity confusion with gag, which are mistakenly called "black grouper."