Adults found on rocky and coral reefs, juveniles occur in shallow turtle grass beds. Also been taken in trawls over mud bottom in the northern Gulf of Mexico. Feeds mainly on fishes (mostly on coral reef species) and squids. Although often implicated in ciguatera poisonings, it is a desirable food fish; and even large (5 to 10 kg) fish from areas considered safe are sold in markets. Also caught with surface trolling. Sex-reversal has been observed .
Dorsal spines (total): 11; Dorsal soft rays (total): 15 - 16; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 10 - 12. Distinguished by the following characteristics: Head and body have oval groups of dark spots; outer third of pectoral fin bright yellow ; two color morphs: a deep-water reddish form and shallow-water greenish form; depth of body contained 2.9-3.2 times in SL; head length 2.6-2.9 times in SL; convex interorbital area; evenly rounded preopercle or with slight notch, without projecting bony lobe at the angle; nostrils subequal or posterior nostrils with diameter twice the size of anterior nostrils .: fusiform / normal; Cross section: oval.
Behavioural data for Yellowfin grouper is currently being reviewed.
Diet information for Yellowfin grouper is currently being compiled.
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 2 - 137 m , usually 5 - 35 m . Subtropical; 35°N - 28°S, 92°W - 33°W south to Sao Paulo, Brazil.
fishes (mostly on coral reef species) and squids
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 13 records indexed .
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