Broomtail Grouper

Family: Sea Basses & Groupers (Serranidae)
Size: Up to 150 cm (5 ft) | Common: 80 cm
Depth: 5 – 70m (15 – 230ft)

Distribution: Eastern Pacific (California down to Peru, including the Galapagos and Malpelo).

Identification: A heavy-bodied, imposing predator with a very distinctive tail.

• Color & Pattern: The body is typically grayish-brown, olive, or greenish, covered in an intricate, chain-like pattern (reticulations) of dark blotches separated by pale, winding lines.
• The "Broom" Tail: The easiest way to identify this species is by looking at its caudal (tail) fin. The stiff fin rays extend noticeably past the fin membrane, giving the trailing edge a jagged, broom-like appearance.
• The Face: They have a classic, robust grouper profile with a protruding lower jaw and large, thick lips.

Behavior: A master of the ambush.

• Hunting: Like most large groupers, they are solitary apex predators. They hover near the bottom or hide within rocky caves, relying on their camouflage to ambush passing fish and large crustaceans.
• Curiosity: Despite their size and predatory nature, they are known to be quite bold and curious around divers, often holding their ground and watching you closely as you swim by.