DISTRIBUTION OF EPINEPHELUS EPISTICTUS (Temminck and Schlegel, 1843) (Perciformes: Epinephelidae) IN THE COASTAL AREAS OF NORTH CENTRAL, VIETNAM

The article provides data on the morphological characteristics and the distribution of the dotted grouper Epinephelus epistictus (Temminck & Schlegel, 1843) in the coastal area of Thanh Hoa province, North Central Vietnam. Five specimens were collected from Minh Loc fishing port during a fish fauna survey on 06 August 2023. Combine with data from previous studies, this paper provides information of the distribution of E. epistictus in Vietnam in a northward expansion direction, thereby demonstrating the widespread distribution of this species. Species identification was confirmed by morphological characteristics and colour patterns on the body.