Groupers at Las Galletas
The dusky grouper, guardian of the volcanic rocks — a guaranteed encounter at our sites
The territorial giant
The dusky grouper (Epinephelus marginatus) is one of the most iconic fish in the eastern Atlantic. Particularly curious and approachable for respectful divers, it is one of the finest photo subjects at Las Galletas. A protected species in the Canaries, its population is thriving at our sites.
A fascinating biology
Protogynous hermaphroditism
Epinephelus marginatus
The dusky grouper displays one of the most surprising biologies in the marine world. All individuals are born female and some become male as they age. The large males you will observe at our sites are therefore former females, often 20 to 30 years old.
A formidable predator
An opportunistic predator, the grouper feeds on octopus, crabs and small fish. It hunts in ambush, motionless in a crevice, before pouncing on its prey at lightning speed. At our sites, they are accustomed to human presence and allow patient divers to approach.
Their haunts at Las Galletas
El Condecito
The most consistent site for groupers around Las Galletas. Several large individuals permanently reside in the crevices of the volcanic rocks.
Montana Amarilla
The rocky area is home to several territorial groupers. They are particularly curious in summer during their breeding season.
Cueva del Palm Mar
The volcanic cave provides ideal shelter for large groupers. Individuals over a metre long are common near the entrance.
How to approach them
Patience above all
Groupers observe from their crevice. Stay still — they often come out to inspect you.
Approach from below
Descend gently from below rather than from above. The grouper feels less threatened by a diver at its level.
Never feed them
Feeding groupers alters their natural behaviour and can make them aggressive. It is also prohibited in Spanish waters.
Summer for large males
In summer, large males defend their territory. They are more visible and bolder — the best time to photograph them.
Meet the groupers at Las Galletas
Our guides know the hideout of every grouper at our sites. An encounter with these curious giants is guaranteed on our dives.
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