Scorpaenidae (Scorpionfishes)
Epinephelus itajara
0 to 100+ ft
The jewfish is generally noted for its huge size, up to 8 feet (2 m) and 700 lbs (318 kg). The head and body vary in color from pale to dark brown. Many small dark spots cover the head, body and fins. Four to five irregular dark bands may be visible across the body, particularly on smaller individuals. The tail is rounded. The jewfish ranges throughout the Caribbean, and in parts of the eastern Pacific and eastern Atlantic but has become increasingly uncommon due to over-fishing, particularly by spearfishing. It inhabits shallow reefs, often hiding in or around wrecks, pilings, crevices and caves. The jewfish feeds heavily on lobsters and other crustaceans, but is also know to eat fish, stingrays and even turtles. Normally shy and reclusive, the jewfish will occasionally let divers approach, but has been know to become aggressive.
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