Starspotted grouper (Epinephelus hexagonatus) is a saltwater species recorded in Hong Kong, Taiwan. It is mainly found over reef, at depths of 0–30 m. The main season in Hong Kong, Taiwan runs all year.
Scientific name: Epinephelus hexagonatus · Water: Saltwater · Season: All year
Size: up to 27.5 cm
The starspotted grouper lives in the shallow, wave-exposed outer reef, where its camouflage is excellent, and is usually solitary. It feeds on fishes and crustaceans such as mantis shrimps and crabs. This is a small grouper - a maximum of 27.5 cm and maturity at about 19 cm - so although groupers as a group command high prices, it is not commercially important and is mostly eaten by small-scale fishers themselves. Taken by handline, traps, spear and gill nets. Present all year.
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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