Leopard grouper

Photo: Arturo Velasco · CC BY-NC

The leopard grouper is endemic to the Sea of Cortez and is the apex reef predator at Los Islotes. Large individuals congregate in the boulder fields beneath the sea lion colony, capitalizing on the disturbance the sea lions cause when chasing fish. They are a key indicator of reef health in the Gulf of California and their abundance at this protected site reflects the long-term effectiveness of the Espiritu Santo national park designation.