Body relatively elongate and compressed. Head long, 44〜46% of SL. Preopercular margin finely serrated; posterior part of opercle with 3 flat spines. Pelvic fin longer than pectoral fin and inserted anterior to ventral end of pectoral base. Soft portions of dorsal and anal fins rounded; their bases with scales. Scales on body ctenoid. Caudal fin truncate. Body black with many small white spots; fins black; in young caudal fin pale yellow.
Distribution:
From Massachusetts to Suriname.
Remarks:
This species is distinguishable from other species of Epinephelus by the deep notches in the spinous dorsal fin, 10 spines in the dorsal fin, and the second dorsal spine longer than the third. (Matsuura)