Early life history stages of goliath grouper Epinephelus itajara (Pisces: Epinephelidae) from Ten Thousand Islands, Florida

Abstract

From September through December 2001 to 2004, goliath grouper juveniles (15 to 87 mm standard length [SL]) were collected from tributary mouths in the Ten Thousand Islands region of southwest Florida's Gulf coast. These juveniles represent the smallest individuals of this species collected to date. These individuals were newly settled and showed only minor pigmentation. Descriptions and illustrations of juveniles between 15 and 38 mm SL are provided herein. Otolith analyses revealed a pelagic larval duration of 30 to 80 d with the potential for delayed larval metamorphosis. Based on back-calculation of daily rings, spawning generally occurred around the full moon, with settlement times irrespective of lunar phase. Length and age data provided the basis for the growth curve. © Inter-Research 2009.