The goliath grouper is found in the western Atlantic Ocean from Florida to southern Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean. It also occurs in the eastern Atlantic along parts of the coast of Africa and in the eastern Pacific from the Gulf of California to Peru. It is associated with rocky or coral reefs in shallow water marine and, sometimes, estuarine environments. This grouper can reach a length of eight feet and weigh 1,000 lbs. It is the largest grouper in the Atlantic Ocean.

This species is an ambush predator that strikes in a quick lunge powered by its broad caudal fin and wide caudal peduncle. It expands its mouth during its attack to suck in its prey before it can escape.

• This species will produce a loud booming sound with its swim bladder when startled or cornered.
• The goliath grouper was formerly called the “jewfish."
• This species, like other grouper, has been heavily overfished and is considered to be critically endangered.
• The goliath grouper feeds primarily on crustaceans, fish, rays and turtles.
• It uses the strong suction of its large mouth to vacuum lobsters from crevices in the rocks.

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