| Comet grouper | |
|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Perciformes |
| Family: | Serranidae |
| Genus: | Epinephelus |
| Species: | E. morrhua |
| Binomial name | |
| Epinephelus morrhua Valenciennes, 1833 |
|
The comet grouper or blue grouper (Epinephelus morrhua) is a deep water fish found from the Red Sea and eastern Africa to the central Pacific Ocean. It is found near coral reefs at depths from 80 to 370 m (260-890 feet) and is non-migratory. It is sometimes confused with its relatives E. poecilonotus, E. radiatus, and E. tuamotoensis. Although it is reported to be a gamefish, it is not commonly seen in markets. It has also been associated with ciguatera poisoning. [2]