Tiger Grouper
Tiger Grouper, Juvenile
| Name: | Tiger Grouper |
| Scientific Name: | Mycteroperca tigris |
| Family: | Groupers |
| Taxonomic: | Epinephelidae |
| ID Group: | Groupers, Sea Basses, Basslets |
| Size: | 1 - 2 ft. |
| Depth Range: | On the reef (10 – 60 ft.) |
| Sightings: | Not usually seen |
The Tiger Grouper has a pale body marked with broad, dark diagonal bars that resemble tiger stripes. It also has spots or blotches on the sides of its head. Its coloration can change dramatically and may appear reddish, especially when at cleaning stations. Juveniles are bright yellow with a single dark streak running horizontally along the middle of the body.
This Grouper is often seen alone on the reef near rocky ledges or at wrecks. It is a cautious predator that feeds primarily at dusk, ambushing smaller fish such as Parrotfish and Wrasses. The Tiger Grouper starts life as a female and changes into a male as it grows. It is confirmed to live at least 9 years but may reach up to 30 years in the wild. During the spawning season, it forms large aggregations, which makes it highly vulnerable to overfishing. On Bonaire, its population has declined. Until recently, this Grouper was a common sight.