Groupers

Giant grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus)

The Giant grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus) belongs to the family Epinephelidae (groupers) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is a carnivore and usually seen alone. It reaches about 200 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Data Deficient. It is not dangerous to divers.

Giant grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus), a Red Sea fish of the groupers family
Photo: iNaturalist / Wikimedia Commons

Quick facts

Scientific nameEpinephelus lanceolatus
FamilyGroupers (Epinephelidae)
Common name (IT)Cernia gigante
Common name (EN)Giant grouper
Maximum size200 cm
Depth1–50 m
DistributionRed Sea and Indo-Pacific
IUCN statusDD — Data Deficient

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 Giant grouper belong to?
The Giant grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus) belongs to the family Epinephelidae (groupers).
Is the Giant grouper dangerous?
It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
Is the Giant 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 Giant grouper get?
It reaches a maximum length of about 200 cm.

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