Centropristis

Centropristis is a genus of marine fish in the family Serranidae, commonly known as groupers. The genus includes over 20 species, distributed throughout the western Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and eastern Atlantic Ocean. Groupers are generally large, robust fish with distinctive features like a large mouth, prominent teeth, and a thick body. They are solitary and predatory, preying on other fish and invertebrates.

Black seabass – Centropristis striata

Common Names

Species of Centropristis are known by a variety of common names, including:

  • Grouper
  • Sea bass
  • Black sea bass
  • Red grouper
  • Hickory grouper

Characteristics

Members of Centropristis share several characteristics:

  • Body Shape: Robust, oval-shaped body with a large head.
  • Mouth: Large mouth with prominent teeth, particularly canines.
  • Scales: Ctenoid scales, which are rough and comb-like.
  • Dorsal Fin: Single dorsal fin with a continuous spine and soft rays.
  • Anal Fin: Anal fin with three spines and 8-11 soft rays.
  • Coloration: Varies depending on species, but often includes shades of brown, black, or red.

Environment

Centropristis species are found in a variety of marine environments, including:

  • Rocky Reefs: Often found hiding among rocks and crevices.
  • Seagrass Beds: Some species inhabit seagrass beds.
  • Coral Reefs: Certain species are associated with coral reefs.
  • Estuaries: Some species tolerate brackish water.

References

For more information on Centropristis, consult the following reliable resources: