Sea basses

Blacktip grouper (Epinephelus fasciatus)

The Blacktip grouper (Epinephelus fasciatus) belongs to the family Serranidae (sea basses) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is a carnivore and usually seen alone. It reaches about 22 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.

Blacktip grouper (Epinephelus fasciatus), a Red Sea fish of the sea basses family
Photo: iNaturalist / Wikimedia Commons

Quick facts

Scientific nameEpinephelus fasciatus
FamilySea basses (Serranidae)
Common name (IT)Cernia striata nera
Common name (EN)Blacktip grouper
Maximum size22 cm
Depth1–50 m
DistributionRed Sea and Indo-Pacific
IUCN statusLC — Least Concern

Description

Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.

Where it lives

Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.

  • Red Sea
  • Indo-Pacific

Frequently asked questions

What family does the Blacktip grouper belong to?
The Blacktip grouper (Epinephelus fasciatus) belongs to the family Serranidae (sea basses).
Is the Blacktip grouper dangerous?
It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
Is the Blacktip grouper endemic to the Red Sea?
No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
How big does the Blacktip grouper get?
It reaches a maximum length of about 22 cm.

Explore the Blacktip grouper in 3D in the interactive atlas →