The Giant Groper (Epinephelus lanceolatus), also known as the Brindle Bass, Brown Spotted Cod, Bumblebee Groper & as the Queensland Groper in Australia, is the largest bony fish found in coral reefs, & is the aquatic emblem of Queensland, Australia.

It is found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, with the exception of the Persian Gulf. The species can grow as large as 2.7 metres long, weighing up to 600 kg; there are unconfirmed reports of its growing much bigger. They are fairly common in shallow waters & feed on a variety of marine life, including small sharks & juvenile sea turtles. Giant Gropers do not move around a lot, & generally take up residence in caves. They are bold & will have a good hard look at any intruder, giving divers a scare, but are not dangerous to humans.

This giant fish is similar to an Estuary Cod & changes colour with age. The Giant Groper has a large mouth & a rounded tail. Juveniles have irregular black & yellow markings, while adults are green-grey to grey-brown with faint mottling. There are numerous small black spots on the fins.

The Queensland Groper is one of many species you’ll meet when you scuba dive the ex-HMAS Brisbane. Enjoy the experience!