The humpback grouper, whose scientific name is Cromileptes altivelis, is a premium edible grouper with a distinctive appearance

The official Chinese name of the humpback grouper is Cromileptes altivelis, and some people also call it the beryx-like grouper. It is a reef fish distributed in the tropical coral reef waters of the Indian Ocean to the Western Pacific. In Chinese it is often grouped into the broad grouper family, and because of its endearing appearance it has acquired quite a few common names.

It is highly recognizable: its body color is on the lighter side, covered all over with round black spots, its snout is long and pointed and juts slightly forward, and its back has a pronounced hump, giving its overall outline the look of a small mouse - hence the name humpback grouper (literally "mouse grouper"). The spots are most vivid at the juvenile stage, and as it grows, its body color and markings gradually change, but the humped back and spots remain important features.

In terms of habits, the humpback grouper mostly inhabits rocky caves, lagoons and similar waters. It has a gentle temperament, does not move quickly, and often lives alone, feeding mainly on small fish and crustaceans.

Because its flesh is tender and its flavor delicately sweet, the humpback grouper has long been regarded as a premium edible fish in live fish markets and high-end restaurants, often appearing at banquets and other important occasions. With its elegant form and striking markings, some people also keep it in aquariums as an ornamental fish. In terms of farming, fry rearing and disease prevention are the main difficulties, and although artificial breeding techniques have made progress, it remains overall a species that is relatively difficult to farm.

It should also be noted that wild humpback grouper faces concerns of declining resources due to fishing pressure, so choosing individuals from aquaculture sources is relatively more sustainable. When buying, you can judge quality by observing whether the markings are clear, whether the body shape is well proportioned, and whether it is lively and vigorous.