1. International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Status: Critically Endangered
Average Size: unknown Maximum Size: 8 feet
Goliath Grouper
Epinephelus itajara
• Formerly known as the Jewfish, the Goliath Grouper gets its name
from its massive size. These fish can get to be around 800lbs—nearly
the size of a vintage VW Beetle!
• Goliath Groupers can be found in the (sub)tropical Atlantic Ocean,
off both coasts of Florida and Brazil, as well as throughout the
Caribbean Sea. They have also been seen in the Eastern Atlantic
Ocean off the coast of Africa from Senegal to Congo.
• They are a mottled brown/yellow color with large mouths that extend
past their eyes.
• Diet: Mostly slow-moving, bottom-dwelling species such as crabs,
lobster and other fishes. They are ambush predators who swallow
their prey whole! Some have even been seen snacking on the
invasive Lionfish.
• Threats: Because they are a slow-growing, slow-reproducing species
they are very vulnerable to pressures from over-fishing, both
commercially and recreationally.