Honeycomb grouper (Epinephelus merra) is a saltwater species recorded in Malaysia. It is mainly found over reef, at depths of 0–50 m.
Scientific name: Epinephelus merra · Water: Saltwater
Size: up to 36.5 cm
The Honeycomb grouper is a serranid that lives solitary on coastal and offshore reefs, usually shallower than 20 m and very common in shallow lagoons and semi-protected seaward reefs; juveniles are especially associated with thickets of staghorn Acropora coral. It feeds on crustaceans and fishes, taking more fish as it grows. No season has been verified for it, it reaches about 36.5 cm total length, occurs from 0 to 50 m, and IUCN lists it as Least Concern. Sold in Malaysian live fish markets.
Caution: large individuals carry a ciguatera risk. Heat, cold and marinating do not remove the toxin, which concentrates in the liver, roe and head, so avoid eating those parts. Seek medical help if numbness, tingling or a reversed sense of hot and cold follows a meal.
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