Where are these fishes found?

Representatives of the family occur in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide.

Are groupers part of Serranidae?

Groupers were historically included, but taxonomic revisions have split Epinephelinae (groupers) out from Serranidae.

What higher-order group do they belong to?

They belong to the order Perciformes.

Is the family currently more or less speciose after revisions?

It is now much less speciose as a consequence of those taxonomic revisions.

Does the family include anthias?

Anthias (Anthiadinae) were formerly included but have been split out.

Does the source state specific species present now?

No; the source discusses historical composition and subsequent taxonomic splits but does not list current species.

Saltwater Fishes

Grouper/Basslets

Q: Were other groups split from Serranidae?

Yes; Epinephelinae (groupers), Grammistini (soapfish), and Anthiadinae (anthias) were split out.

Serranidae is a family of marine fishes found in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide.

sea basses (historical grouping)groupers (historical inclusion)

Last Updated Mar 9, 2026 · 2 sources

Species Guide

What to know about grouper/bassletses

A clean field guide focused on habitat, identification, behavior, and conservation context without burying the useful parts.

Serranidae is a family of marine fish in the order Perciformes. The family historically included about 450 species in 65 genera, encompassing some sea basses and groupers; taxonomic revisions have since split out Epinephelinae (groupers), Grammistini (soapfish), and Anthiadinae (anthias), leaving the family less speciose. Representatives occur in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide.

The strongest linked planning options currently surface around destinations such as Koh Tao, Caye Caulker, San Pedro (Ambergris Caye), Belize and countries such as Thailand, Portugal, Malta for divers building trips around grouper/bassletses.

Identification

How to identify grouper/bassletses

The visual markers divers can use underwater, plus the species most likely to cause confusion.

Key identification markers

Taxonomic placement

Members of Serranidae are marine fishes in the order Perciformes.

Responsible Encounters

How to dive with grouper/bassletses

Conservation-minded guidance for divers who want the encounter without adding pressure.

Give grouper/basslets space, avoid blocking the animal's path, and follow local site and operator rules for wildlife interactions with saltwater fishes.

Field Notes