Leatherbass

{
  "id": "49fe45ab-5619-47e2-921d-d50124fa4924",
  "commonName": "Leatherbass",
  "scientificName": "Dermatolepis dermatolepis",
  "slug": "leatherbass",
  "category": "saltwater",
  "aliases": [
    "Leather Bass",
    "Coral Grouper"
  ],
  "description": "The Leatherbass, *Dermatolepis dermatolepis*, is a striking denizen of the Eastern Pacific, presenting an almost prehistoric appearance. It possesses a deep, robust body covered in thick, leathery skin (hence its name) rather than typical scales, mottled in a cryptic pattern of dark browns, grays, and olive. Juveniles may show hints of reddish or orange, but mature specimens are masters of disguise against the reef. A prominent, slightly underslung jaw and large pectoral fins complete the picture. This is a substantial fish; while average catches range from 5 to 15 pounds, true trophies can exceed 30 pounds, offering a formidable presence both in the water and in the hand.",
  "imageUrl": "https://media.meridiaoutdoors.com/media/species/leatherbass/main.webp",
  "hero": {
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    "altText": "Leatherbass (Dermatolepis dermatolepis) watercolor",
    "caption": "The Leatherbass, *Dermatolepis dermatolepis*, is a striking denizen of the Eastern Pacific, presenting an almost prehistoric appearance.",
    "width": 2400,
    "height": 1340
  },
  "phases": [
    {
      "id": "d8109de2-c70f-4848-89bf-19cb352cdf50",
      "name": "Adult",
      "slug": "adult",
      "description": "The adult Leatherbass is a cryptic, ambush predator of the deep reef. It lives a largely sedentary life, using its superb camouflage to hide among rocks and coral rubble, waiting to engulf unsuspecting prey. This is the formidable resident anglers target for its size and power.",
      "appearance": "Deep, robust, laterally compressed body covered in thick, leathery skin devoid of typical scales. The background color is a variable mottled pattern of dark olive-brown, charcoal gray, and slate, often with irregular, cloud-like blotches of lighter gray or dull cream. The head is large with a prominent, slightly underslung jaw and a fleshy appearance. Fins are large and rounded, with the pectorals being particularly expansive. The dorsal and caudal fins often mirror the body's mottled pattern. Average size ranges from 20 to 30 inches in length.",
      "triggers": null,
      "habitat": "Rocky reefs, coral bottoms, and boulder fields in the Eastern Pacific, typically at depths from 60 to over 300 feet.",
      "anglersNote": "This is the primary trophy phase, known for its powerful runs and bulldogging fight from deep structure. Handle with care due to its sensitive skin.",
      "displayOrder": 0,
      "imageUrl": null,
      "media": null
    },
    {
      "id": "4c523fd7-5d5a-4516-989d-275692597234",
      "name": "Juvenile/Sub-Adult",
      "slug": "juvenile",
      "description": "Younger Leatherbass inhabit shallower, more protected environments. They are more active and exploratory than their deep-dwelling adult counterparts, but they still rely heavily on camouflage to avoid predation. This stage is where they grow into the reef's formidable ambushers.",
      "appearance": "Similar deep-bodied shape but more slender than adults. The leathery skin is present but appears smoother. The cryptic mottling is often more contrasting and can include distinct hues of reddish-brown, burnt orange, or rusty gold mixed with the dark browns and grays. These warmer tones are most pronounced on the flanks and fins. Fins are proportionally large. Typically under 15 inches in length.",
      "triggers": "Growth and maturation, leading to a migration to deeper reef habitats.",
      "habitat": "Shallow inshore reefs, rocky shorelines, and tide pools, often at depths less than 60 feet.",
      "anglersNote": "Rarely targeted by anglers, but may be encountered incidentally in shallower water. Should be released to grow into a trophy.",
      "displayOrder": 1,
      "imageUrl": null,
      "media": null
    }
  ],
  "contentUpdatedAt": "2026-05-09T22:32:53.981Z"
}

[]

[]

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  "title": null,
  "description": "Leatherbass, also known as Coral Grouper, is a large Eastern Pacific reef fish with thick, leathery skin. Target trophy sizes over 30 pounds.",
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  "ogDescription": "The Leatherbass, or Coral Grouper, is a unique reef dweller of the Eastern Pacific. Learn about its leathery skin, ambush tactics, and how to target trophy specimens over 30 pounds.",
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