- Yellowfin grouper
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Yellowfin grouper Conservation status Scientific classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Actinopterygii Order: Perciformes Family: Serranidae Subfamily: Epinephelinae Genus: Mycteroperca Species: M. venenosa Binomial name Mycteroperca venenosa
(Linnaeus, 1758)The yellowfin grouper (Mycteroperca venenosa) is a coral reef fish native to the western Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico. It is generally a denizen of the deeper reef areas but it may venture into shallower waters, especially during the cooler seasons.
The fish is variable in color but is usually similar in appearance to the Black Grouper. It is distinguishable by the bright yellow trim on the pectoral fins. The yellowfin grouper is a hearty fish, often reaching 10 kilograms. It is considered quite tasty and is one of the more popular Gulf gamefishes. It has been known to be a cause of ciguatera toxin poisoning, however. An attractive animal, the Yellowfin Grouper is a popular aquarium fish.
This species is one of the main catches in the fishing industry in Bermuda. It is considered overfished, and is currently threatened in several areas.
External links
- Mycteroperca venenosa FishBase. Ed. Ranier Froese and Daniel Pauly. January 2006 version. N.p.: FishBase, 2006.
- IUCN Red List 2004
Categories:- IUCN Red List near threatened species
- Mycteroperca
- Animals described in 1758
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