Yellowfin grouper
| Yellowfin grouper | |
|---|---|
| |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Perciformes |
| Family: | Epinephelidae |
| Genus: | Mycteroperca |
| Species: | M. venenosa
|
| Binomial name | |
| Mycteroperca venenosa | |
The yellowfin grouper (Mycteroperca venenosa) is a species of marine ray-finned fish, a grouper from the subfamily Epinephelinae which is part of the family Serranidae, which also includes the anthias and sea basses. It is found in the warmer waters of the western Atlantic Ocean.
The fish is variable in color, but is usually similar in appearance to the black grouper. It is distinguishable by the bright yellow trim on the pectoral fins. The yellowfin grouper is a hearty fish, often reaching 10 kg. It is considered quite tasty and is one of the more popular Gulf gamefishes. It has been known to be a cause of ciguatera toxin poisoning, however. An attractive animal, the yellowfin grouper is a popular aquarium fish.
This species is one of the main catches in the fishing industry in Bermuda. It is considered overfished, and is currently threatened in several areas.
External links
- Mycteroperca venenosa FishBase. Ed. Ranier Froese and Daniel Pauly. January 2006 version. N.p.: FishBase, 2006.
- IUCN Red List 2004
- Photos of Yellowfin grouper in the Sealife Collection