Epinephelus melanostigma Schultz, 1953
One-blotch grouper
Epinephelus melanostigma
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Epinephelidae (Groupers)
Max. size:  54.9 cm TL (male/unsexed); max.weight: 3,794.0 g
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 0 - 30 m
Distribution:  Indo-West Pacific: Natal, South Africa to the central Pacific. Not known from the Red Sea nor Persian Gulf.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 11-11; Dorsal soft rays (total): 14-16; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 8-8. A single large black blotch along middle of dorsal fin base (Ref. 37816), which can be turned off (Ref. 48635); further characterized by head, body and fins having numerous close-set polygon shaped dark brown spots; broad zone along side of body with ctenoid scales, cycloid scales elsewhere; body with auxiliary scales; greatest depth of body 2.9-3.4 in SL; rounded caudal fin; short pelvic fins, 2.0-2.6 in head length (Ref. 90102); head length 2.2-2.4 in SL; flat or slightly concave interorbital area; rounded preopercle, serrae mostly covered by skin; straight or slightly convex upper edge of operculum; subequal posterior and anterior nostrils; maxilla reaches to or past vertical at rear edge of eye; 3-5 rows of teeth on midlateral part of lower jaw, inner teeth about twice as long as outer ones (Ref. 89707).
Biology:  Occur in outer reef flats and shallow lagoon (Ref. 37816). Reported to be taken in a trawl, thus presumably caught somewhat deeper than 7 m. Also reported to occur in reefs at a depth of about 30 m (Ref. 5213). Because of its small size and apparent rarity, it is of little or no commercial importance. Solitary (Ref 90102).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 15 January 2018 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  reports of ciguatera poisoning


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