Scientific Name:
Epinephelus nigritus
Common Name(s):
Giant Grouper, Black Jewfish, Garrupa Negrita
Description:
Warsaw Groupers are mottled dark brown, shading to slightly lighter brown on lower portions. Their tail is square and yellowish in color and their second dorsal spine is elongated and crest-like.
Feeding Habits:
Adults feed on a variety of crabs, shrimps, lobsters, and fish.
Range:
All Florida coasts, Atlantic and Gulf, but not reported from the Bahamas.
Habitat:
Warsaw Groupers are normally found in very deep drop-offs, ledges and seamounts. They are seldom encountered in less than 200 feet, and most common in much deeper water.
Typical Size:
The Warsaw Grouper is the second-largest Grouper, commonly caught at 30-80 pounds, with 100-pounders not rare. Probably grows to more than 500 pounds.
World Record:
436 pounds, 12 ounces (IGFA)