Goliath groupers are found in waters up to depths of 150 m (492 ft) and have been observed to dive deeper than 200 m (656 ft). They can be found in a variety of habitats, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangroves, and rocky bottoms. Goliath groupers prefer to live around rocky structures and reefs, where they have plenty of places to hide and ambush their prey.
Where do goliath groupers live?
Goliath groupers are found primarily in shallow tropical waters among coral and artificial reefs. They are found in the Atlantic Ocean from Senegal to the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as in the Gulf of Mexico and Florida Keys. They can also be found in deeper waters up to 150 feet (46 m) and in brackish estuaries, canals, and mangrove swamps.
Has a goliath grouper ever swallowed a human?
There have not been any documented cases of a Goliath grouper swallowing a human. However, there have been reports of Goliath groupers attacking humans. In 2014, a fisherman in Florida was attacked by a Goliath grouper, which caused him to be hospitalized. In 2021, a diver in Australia was attacked by a Goliath grouper, which caused him to be hospitalized. In both cases, the fishermen were able to escape the attack.
How long do goliath groupers live for?
Goliath groupers are a long-lived species, with some estimates suggesting they can live for up to 50 to 100 years. However, the average lifespan of a Goliath grouper is estimated to be between 30 and 37 years.
Are goliath groupers saltwater?
Yes, goliath groupers (Epinephelus itajara) are saltwater fish. They are found in the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Caribbean Sea. They can reach lengths of up to 8.2 feet and can weigh up to 800 pounds.