[1] The areolate grouper is a large fish (up to 47 cm long, 1.4 kg[3]) that lives near coral reefs.

Its coloration is whitish to gray with rounded brownish spots; it is particularly identifiable by a narrow, white, straight margin on its truncate tail.

Maturity is reached at a fork length of 22 cm (8.7 in), and spawning usually occurs during the months of May, June, October and December.

[9] Areolate grouper feed on fish and benthic (bottom-dwelling) invertebrates, primarily prawns and crabs.

This method is simple, has low capital investment, and uses existing bodies of water, so production can be easily increased or decreased.

Disadvantages compared to pond culture include vulnerability to external water quality problems and predators.