This paper is an updated account of the Serranidae (groupers and sea basses) from the Canary Islands (eastern-central Atlantic). In this region this family is represented by 16 valid species belonging to six genera: Serranus, Anthias, Cephalopholis, Epinephelus, Mycteroperca, and Paranthias. Their biogeographic patterns and known distribution are provided, and several hypotheses explaining their presence in the Canaries are discussed. Settlement of Epinephelus costae is confirmed in Canary waters, where it is subject to regular recreational fishing. Also, the present report first records Serranus hepatus and Epinephelus aeneus from the Canaries. For each species, biogeographic pattern, temporal establishment process, local fishing uses, and measures for their conservation management are discussed and summarized in a table.