Grouper: The King of the Deep

Let's talk about the grouper (Epinephelus marginatus) which is probably the most beloved prey of underwater fishermen. The grouper is characterized by many as the king of the deep, perhaps because of its imposing presence as it can exceed 50 kilos in weight, or perhaps for its delicious meat. The fish is coffee-coloured with light yellow dots and a large lower jawbone. The grouper usually inhabits mild climates and warm seas, usually in rocky sea bottoms, inside nesting holes.

We meet the grouper in various depths, from a few metres to several hundred. The Mediterranean Epinephelus usually lives motionless! The most basic way of catching it is by spear gun but trawl lines or hand lines may be used.  The grouper's favourite food is octopus, squid and cuttlefish.