This species prefers areas with rocky substrates and can be found at depths of from 1 to 65 m . Their diet consists of other fishes, crabs, lobster, various molluscs including abalone, and starfish. This species grows to a length of 175 cm (69 in).[2] Weights of up to 40 kg (88 lb) have been recorded.[3] They have a single long-based dorsal fin, a large squarish tail, thick fleshy lips, large heavy scales and peg-like teeth.[4] This species is of minor importance to local commercial fisheries.[2]
In South Australia the species is protected in Spencer Gulf, St Vincent Gulf, INvestigator Strait and Backstairs Passage.[5] The species is occasionally caught by line and spear fishers. Conservationists and some scientists argue that state-wide protection is needed to achieve ecologically meaningful results.[citation needed] It is considered by many experts[who?] to be functionally extinct in Gulf Saint Vincent and mature adults are now rare in Spencer Gulf[citation needed]. In light of the fact that it's the top order territorial bony rocky reef fish in this State[citation needed], full protection should[according to whom?] be a matter of high priority.
Western blue groper
Outside of spatial closures, recreational fishers are allowed to catch one Western blue groper per day in South Australia[5] and Western Australia.[6] The fish is fully protected in Victorian waters.[7]
