Duskytail Grouper

Recognized by the bluish lower half of the caudal fin and the lack of spots there compared to the upper half (Ref. 48635); characterized further by: generally brown color; head, body and fins with red to dark brown spots; body scales ctenoid, except cycloid scales on nape, thorax and ventrally on abdomen; body with auxiliary scales; elongate body, greatest depth 3.0-3.5 in SL; truncate to slightly rounded caudal fin; short pelvic fins, 1.9-2.4 in head length (Ref. 90102); head length 2.4-2.7 times in standard length; interorbital area flat to slightly convex; preopercle angle with 2-9 enlarged serrae, adults with a notch above angle; straight upper edge of operculum; scaly maxilla, reaching to or beyond vertical at rear edge of eye; 2 rows of subequal teeth on midlateral part of lower jaw (Ref. 089707).

Prosorhynchus Disease (metacercaria). Parasitic infestations (protozoa, worms, etc.)

Prosorhynchus Infestation 3. Parasitic infestations (protozoa, worms, etc.)

Dorsal spines (total): 11; Dorsal soft rays (total): 16 - 18; Analspines: 3; Analsoft rays: 8 - 9

Occur on shallow banks, but is not known from well-developed coral reefs (Ref. 27253) and adjacent soft substrate in depths of 30-105 m (Ref. 089707). Also found in silty coastal reefs and estuaries. Solitary (Ref 90102). Benthic (Ref. 75154). In Hong Kong live fish markets (Ref. 27253). Usually taken by trawling in 30-45 m or by hand-lining over rocky banks; not found from coral reefs (Ref. 11441).

fisheries: minor commercial; aquaculture: commercial; price category: very high; price reliability: questionable: based on ex-vessel price for species in this genus