Description of a New Sound Produced by Nassau Grouper at Spawning Aggregation Sites

This study identified a new sound produced by Nassau Grouper in association with, although potentially not exclusive to, an agonistic interaction at a spawning aggregation. We have also provided a behavioral and acoustic description for identification of this sound in future studies. The discovery of a third type of sound produced by Nassau Grouper further highlights the importance of acoustic communication coupled with visual displays in fishes. Furthermore, identification of a new sound increases the ability to document the presence of this endangered species at spawning sites. Future efforts may reveal that the sound is produced within additional behavioral contexts during and outside of spawning seasons, such as the defense of territories or food resources. Continued efforts to catalog the sounds and behaviors of species like Nassau Grouper will increase our ability to monitor and understand fish behaviors