More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 2300 litres / 607.60 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 46.0cm / 18.11inches |
| Reef Compatible | Reef safe with caution |
| Temperament | Mostly peaceful but might be aggressive towards similar species |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The Bluestriped grunt, scientifically known as Haemulon sciurus, is a fish belonging to the Haemulidae family of Haemulon. This species, commonly found in the Mexican Gulf and the West Atlantic, can grow as large as 46.0cm and is known for its striking blue stripes along its body. Being a part of the Grunt family, the Bluestriped grunt is a predatory fish that feeds mainly on benthic crustaceans, worms, and other fish.
Aquarium Suitability
Considered suitable with care, the Bluestriped grunt demands a very large aquarium, a minimum of 2300 liters, when fully grown. Due to its rapid growth rate, frequent feeding is required, especially when newly introduced to the tank. This species can be kept alone or in a group and needs ample space for swimming, along with good hiding places such as live rocks.
Care and Hardiness
With a hardy nature, this species requires a varied diet to thrive in captivity and must be fed with larger crustaceans, other invertebrates, and small crustaceans like krill or artemia. The Bluestriped grunt can be voracious eaters, which impacts the heavy load on the aquarium, making it crucial to have a tank that can handle such demands.
Reef Suitability
The Bluestriped grunt is considered reef safe with caution, as it may pose a threat to smaller invertebrates and small fish within a reef environment.
Aquarium Setup
To accommodate the Bluestriped grunt, aquarists are advised to set up a tank with plenty of space for swimming and numerous hiding spots, like spaces between live rocks. The water conditions should have a pH level between 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, a temperature range of 22.2-25.6 degrees Celsius, and a carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12.
Behaviour
With a mostly peaceful temperament, the Bluestriped grunt can display aggression towards similar species, so careful consideration should be taken when adding them to a community tank.
Feeding and Diet
To ensure the Bluestriped grunt's optimal health, it is crucial to provide a varied diet consisting of fish, larger crustaceans, and other invertebrates multiple times a day.
Dimorphism
A noticeable dimorphism in appearance may be observed between juvenile and fully mature Bluestriped grunt individuals, with changes in size and possibly coloration.
Habitat and Distribution
In their natural habitat in the Mexican Gulf and West Atlantic, Bluestriped grunts are found dwelling in rocky crevices and coral reefs, where they display their characteristic feeding behaviors and schooling tendencies.