Are Nassau grouper protected in the Bahamas?
To help sustain the Bahamian Nassau grouper fishery, protection of Nassau grouper spawning aggregations began in 1998 with seasonal closures during the winter months. During the closed season the capture or sale of Nassau grouper is prohibited.
Is the grouper endangered?
Not extinctGroupers / Extinction status
Can you keep Nassau grouper?
Currently, all harvest of Nassau grouper is prohibited in the United States. Because their range exceeds national borders, the best approach to their conservation is regional closed seasons. Nassau grouper is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act.
During which months is it illegal to harvest Nassau grouper?
Just a quick reminder that Nassau grouper are off limits for fishing from December 1st to February 28th throughout The Bahamas.
Is Nassau grouper good to eat?
This fish is considered an important food fish throughout the Caribbean and in the West Indies. Hook and line as well as traps are the main methods used to capture the Nassau grouper. The flesh is primarily marketed as fresh, however there have been reports of ciguatera poisoning from human consumption of this fish.
Why are grouper endangered?
The large size, slow growth, low reproductive rate, and spawning behavior have made the goliath grouper especially susceptible to overfishing. The goliath grouper is totally protected from harvest and is recognized as a “Critically Endangered” species by the World Conservation Union (IUCN).
Which months is it illegal to harvest the Nassau grouper?
December 1st – February 28th marks the Nassau Grouper Closed Season. This means that it’s illegal to land, purchase or sell Nassau Grouper during this 3 month winter period.
How big is the Nassau grouper?
30 lbsNassau grouper / Mass (Adult)
Is grouper a sustainable fish?
U.S. wild-caught black grouper is a smart seafood choice because it is sustainably managed and responsibly harvested under U.S. regulations.
Are grouper endangered in Florida?
The goliath grouper is totally protected from harvest and is recognized as a “Critically Endangered” species by the World Conservation Union (IUCN).