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Goliath Grouper

Goliath grouper during the annual spawning event in Jupiter, FL.
(Laura Rock, Florida)

The Goliath grouper, (Epinephelus itajara), is found in shallow tropical waters and reefs. They can reach sizes of 3 meters, and will eat crustaceans, other fish, octopi, and even sharks. The title of goliath is certainly fitting—in fact, the biggest grouper caught on a line was 680 pounds (around the weight of 4 people), and was caught off of Florida, in 1961. But, despite their fearless and invulnerable appearance, the goliath grouper is endangered around the world. Their willingness to approach spear fishermen and to return to spawn in the same location at a set time has lead to mass killings.