AnimaliaHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Epinephelus labriformis
Starry grouper
(Jenyns, 1840)
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
The starry grouper (Epinephelus labriformis) is a benthic predatory fish native to the tropical eastern Pacific. It is characterized by its robust brown or olive body, densely covered in distinctive white spots that give it its name, and a large mouth adapted to swallow prey whole.
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Last modified by
Julia Trouin
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Chordata
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Actinopterygii
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Perciformes
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Serranidae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Epinephelus
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.(Jenyns, 1840)
Record Completeness
95%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Stable
Breeding SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
Carnivore
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
It frequents shallow rocky and coral reefs, tide pools, and surf zones, generally from the surface down to about 30 meters deep.BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
It is a strictly territorial species that aggressively defends its portion of the reef against others of its kind. It spends much of its time hiding in crevices and caves.Social ActivitySocial structure: whether the species is solitary, paired, or colonial; hierarchy and communication. Multi-lang
Generally solitary and reclusive, gathering with others of its species only during massive broadcast spawning reproductive events.Feeding GuildWhat the species eats, how it forages or hunts, and its role as a consumer in the food web. Multi-lang
Ambush predator. It feeds primarily on benthic crustaceans (crabs) and small teleost fishes.Trophic Chain DetailsSpecific interactions in local food webs: prey species, predators, competitors, and scavengers. Multi-lang
Controller of populations of small fish and invertebrates in shallow reefs. It is common prey for large reef sharks, giant moray eels, and marine mammals.Reproductive BehaviourMating strategies, courtship displays, nesting or spawning behavior, and parental care. Multi-lang
Pelagic group spawning. Males and females release eggs and sperm into the open water column; the eggs float and disperse freely with ocean currents.Physical Measures
Length (cm)
15.0 - 60.0 cm
Weight (Grams)
150 g - 3.00 kg
Offspring per cycleTypical number of young (live births, eggs, or seeds) produced by one adult in a single reproductive event or breeding season.50000 - 500000
Sexual DimorphismObservable physical differences between males and females of the same species (e.g., size, coloration, features).No
Lifespan
Sexual MaturityAge at which the individual becomes capable of reproducing for the first time.
3 - 5 Years
Gestation / IncubationDuration from fertilization to birth (mammals) or to hatching (egg-laying species).
1 - 2
Lifespan EstimatedExpected duration of life from birth to natural death under wild conditions.
Males10 - 20 Years
Females10 - 20 Years
Evolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Expansible mouth: Its enormous mouth and strong suction allow it to swallow crustaceans and fish whole in a fraction of a second.
Disruptive coloration: The pattern of white spots on a dark background breaks up its silhouette, camouflaging it perfectly against the rocks.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Fishing pressure: Due to the high quality of its meat, it is a frequent target of local artisanal and recreational fishing.
Habitat destruction: Coastal pollution and reef deterioration reduce their areas of shelter and hunting.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
Sex change: They are protogynous hermaphrodites. All are born as females and, upon reaching a certain size or age, the largest individuals functionally transform into males.