Abstract

Grouper species are ecologically and economically important, supporting both recreational and commercial fisheries. Fishing pressure has been shown to alter sex ratios in hermaphroditic species, including protogynous species of Groupers, by preferentially targeting larger male individuals (Coleman et al. 1996). This selective pressure can negatively affect reproduction and population growth by decreasing the size and fecundity of mature individuals. Data on grouper (Epinephelidae) spawning and reproduction is limited, mostly originating from the Pacific and Caribbean. The vast majority of Grouper studies in the Gulf of Mexico involve only species off the Florida coast, whereas this study examines grouper species in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico where banks along the shelf-edge off the Louisiana and Texas coasts provide important habitat for grouper species, including Scamp Grouper (Mycteroperca phenax), Yellowedge Grouper (Hyporthodus flavolimbatus), and Coney Grouper (Cephalopholis fulva). This study investigates the reproductive character-istics of Grouper species in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico, specifically size at sexual transition, to assess reproductive potential.

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