Atlantic Goliath Grouper

Goliath Grouper

The Goliath Grouper has a big body that is yellowish-brown to olive-green and covered in small, dark spots, and its tail is rounded. It is thick and broad with a rounded head and a distinct, large mouth.

This Grouper, once called the Jewfish, is typically found alone around ledges, caves, and wrecks. This apex predator is an opportunistic ambush feeder, using its massive mouth to swallow a wide variety of prey whole. It primarily feeds on crustaceans, fish, octopuses, and even juvenile turtles. During spawning, it gathers in groups, often with over 100 individuals, where a female can release millions of eggs. They can also produce a loud, booming sound by vibrating their swim bladder. The Goliath Grouper can live for at least 30 years and grow to a very large size. However, on Bonaire, it is now seldom seen due to overfishing and habitat loss.