The Nassau grouper is protected! They have five reddish-brown bars over a light colored body. They are usually seen on shallow to mid-range reefs blending in with surroundings.
Photo by Lee Richter
Black Grouper (Mycteroperca bonaci)
The black grouper varies from reddish brown to black in color with rectangular shaped markings on the upper body and yellow markings on the ends of the pectoral fins. The end of the tail has a wide black bar or margin. These are considered rare here.
Photo by Susanna Pershern
Red Grouper (Epinephelus morio)
This reddish brown grouper can change color from dark to pale with white blotch to blend in with its surroundings. They are not commonly seen here.
Photo by Christy McManus
Coney (Cephalopholis fulva)
The coney goes through several color phases which can be bicolored or golden as juveniles turning to a reddish color with blue dots on the dorsal fin and body, black dots on lower lip and two black dots behind the dorsal fin. They are commonly seen in reef areas and can be curious. Their lack of concern and coloring makes them a great species for photography.
Photo by Judy Buchholz
Graysby (Cephalopholis cruentata)
The graysby is light reddish brown with dark orange or reddish spots over the body. They have 3-5 spots which can be pale or dark along the dorsal fin and a roundish tail. Similar to the Coney, this species can be photographed if approached slowly. They are commonly seen on in coral reefs, small ledges or caves.
Photo by David Bryan
Red Hind (Epinephelus guttatus)
The red hind has reddish spots on a light background and pale or dark blotches below the dorsal fin. They can become pale when over sand and darken to blend into reef structures.
Photo by Leslie Charpentier
Goliath Grouper (Epinephelus itajara)
This giant fish is rarely seen here because of overfishing and their reclusive nature and are now protected. They hide in caves, shipwrecks, and under ledges. They have small dark spots over the body and fins.
Photo by Susanna Pershern
Grunts
French Grunt (Haemulon flavolineatum)
French grunts have bright yellow stripes with blue or yellow background. The yellow stripes along the back are horizontal and they have yellow fins. They are often seen in small to large groups or schools in the shade of corals or rock formations.
Photo by Dave Bryan
Tomtate (Haemulon aurolineatum)
The tomtate is a silver-white fish with a bold yellow or bronze stripe that runs from the snout through the eyes to the base of the tail. They may have a black spot on the base of the tail and additional yellow strips. They are usually found in groups or schools in shaded areas.
