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Giant Grouper

Epinephelus lanceolatus

Quick Facts

Scientific name: Epinephelus lanceolatus
Class: Fish
Weight: 800 to 1,000 pounds
Life span: 30 to 50 years
Conservation status: Vulnerable
Number of offspring: Unknown

About

I LIVE IN THE PACIFIC

The giant grouper is native to lagoons and sea reefs throughout the Pacific Ocean. They can be found as far west as the Red Sea in Africa and as far east as the Hawaiian Islands. This large fish species can also be found from New South Wales Australia to southern Japan.


I AM A CARNIVORE

The giant grouper’s muddled brown scales help is camouflaged among the reefs and aid them in their ambush hunter ways. They are known to eat lobsters, reef fish, and even small sea turtles.


GIANT GROUPERS ARE SOLITARY

Giants groups are known to be very solitary animals and often have a “home site” that they return to regularly.


STATIONARY SWIMMING

The giant grouper will spend much of its time hovering motionless on the ocean floor. As an ambush predator, they rely on their motionlessness to catch their next prey. They will utilize only small fin movements to maintain their hovering position.


HELPING THE GIANT GROUPER IN THE WILD

By visiting the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, you are supporting local, regional, and global conservation. A portion of every ticket sold goes towards conservation of wildlife and wild places. Each year, the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo donates over $250,000 to our conservation partners


I AM IMPORTANT TO MY ECOSYSTEM

The giant grouper plays an important role in the ocean ecosystem. As a large predator in their habitat, the giant grouper helps bring balance by preying on smaller predators. Their presence in the ocean helps increase biodiversity as well.


 

Conservation

Learn more about our efforts, our conservation partners around the world, and the simple steps you can take to contribute.

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