The marble grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus), also known as the brown-marbled grouper, is a large, predatory reef fish recognized by its mottled brown and white coloration and robust body, commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region. This species is highly valued for its firm, white flesh and is a key target for both commercial and artisanal fisheries. The top marble grouper fishing countries include Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Australia, where the fish is harvested from coral reefs using handlines, traps, and sometimes spearfishing. Indonesia leads global catches, supplying both domestic markets and international demand, particularly from China and Hong Kong, where live groupers fetch premium prices. Overfishing and habitat degradation are concerns in many regions, prompting some countries to implement management measures and promote aquaculture to ensure the sustainability of marble grouper populations.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.