---
title: Epaulet Grouper (Epinephelus stoliczkae)
scientific_name: Epinephelus stoliczkae
common_name: Epaulet Grouper
taxon: Groupers
conservation_status: LC - Least Concern
published: 2024-11-07T15:04:32.371Z
updated: 2025-11-25T13:58:09.000Z
tags: Epaulet Grouper, Epinephelus stoliczkae, Groupers, Red Sea, Marine Life, Diving
url: https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/groupers/epaulet-grouper
---

# Epaulet Grouper (*Epinephelus stoliczkae*)

**Taxon:** Groupers (*Epinephelus*)  
**Conservation Status:** LC - Least Concern  


Epinephelus stoliczkae, commonly referred to as the epaulet grouper, is a tropical fish belonging to the family Serranidae and the genus Epinephelus. The species is characterized by a bifurcated dorsal fin, comprising an anterior segment with eleven spines and a posterior segment consisting of 16 to 18 rays. Additionally, the anal fin is equipped with three spine rays and eight soft rays. 

Reports indicate that the Epaulet grouper can attain a maximum length of 38 centimeters. It closely resembles Epinephelus rivulatus, which can lead to potential misidentification between the two species. 

This species is typically found at depths ranging from 5 to 50 meters. Its geographical distribution extends from the Red Sea, including the Gulf of Suez, to the northwestern regions of the Indian Ocean, reaching as far as the coastline of Pakistan. Notably, there have been no recorded observations of the Epaulet grouper in the Persian Gulf or the Gulf of Aqaba.

---

*Source: [Red Sea Creatures](https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/groupers/epaulet-grouper)*
*Updated: November 25, 2025*