Common name:
Bacalao grouper
Scientific name:
Mycteroperca olfax
Spanish name:
Bacalao
Conservation status:
Endangered
Average lifespan:
17 years
Average size:
1 metre
Average weight:
1.5 kilograms
Overview
Some more common names for this fish are Colorado grouper, mangrove grouper, sailfin grouper, sea bass and yellow grouper. Its Spanish name is bacalao.
The bacalao is common around the Galapagos Islands but was downgraded to Endangered on the IUCN Red List in 2022, and its range is restricted to three island groups: the Galapagos Islands (Ecuador), Cocos Island (Costa Rica) and Malpelo (Colombia).
This fish has historically been overfished as it was considered the most valuable in the Galapagos Islands. Adult bacalao tend to inhabit rocky structures such as underwater lava ridges and rocky reefs, however juveniles tend to be found in shallower waters or mangrove lagoons. Bacalao have an annual reproduction cycle which peaks in October and December. As with many reef fish, bacalao are hermaphroditic. All are born as females and reach sexual maturity at four years. At around 12 years of age and given the right conditions, they then transform into males.
Bacalao grouper in Galapagos
Tackling Plastic Pollution
"45% of all plastic used along the Pacific coastline of South and Central America is inadequately managed, leaking 1 million tonnes of plastic each year."
We are working with partners across the Eastern Pacific to make Galapagos plastic pollution free once again, identifying the sources and impacts of plastic and supporting innovative solutions.
How you can help
Please help us conserve the endangered wildlife of Galapagos by donating today.
Get the latest news from Galapagos
