Graysby Grouper

Under 1 foot

Enjambre, Cuna Cabrilla

Coral reefs and patches. Inhabit Thalassia beds and coral reefs. In the Gulf of Mexico, they are found on rocky reef ledge in depths greater than 27 m. Solitary and secretive, they usually stay near hiding places during the day. Prefer to remain within a small area of the home range of about 2,120 square m especially during the day (Ref. 56524). Are nocturnal predators, adults feed mainly on fishes, with preference on Chromis multilineata, juveniles feed on shrimps. Due to its small size, this is not a particularly sought-after species. Easily approached and fed by divers. Protogynous. Between 1995 and 2000, at least 10 specimens have been traded as aquarium fish at Ceará, Brazil

Usually gray with many tiny, dark dots. Series of four spots below dorsal fin. Dorsal spines (total): 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 13-15; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 8. Distinguished by having the following characteristics: body depth 2.5-2.9 times in SL; head length 2.4-2.6 times in SL (Ref. 089707); opercle with 3 flat spines, middle one the largest and upper spine longer than the lowest; pelvic fins shorter than pectorals; bases of soft dorsal and anal fins covered with scales and thick skin; has 4 contrasting spots, white or black, along body below dorsal fin base; color in market: pale orange, grey or brown with reddish spots; black spots on the upper body below the dorsal fin

Most change sex between 20 and 23 cm (ages 4 and 5), with sexual transition occurring immediately after spawning in August and September

Summary of Distribution: Western Central Atlantic: North Carolina to southern Florida (USA), Bermuda, Gulf of Mexico, Bahamas, and the Caribbean; including the Antilles
Note: Distribution range colors indicate degree of suitability of habitat which can be interpreted as probabilities of occurrence (fishbase.org)

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Like the Coney, a common reef catch when small hooks are used. Takes any small cut bait or jig.