More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 3000 litres / 792.52 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 60.0cm / 23.62inches |
| Reef Compatible | Reef safe with caution |
| Temperament | Might be aggressive towards other 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 Aethaloperca rogaa, commonly known as the Redmouth grouper, belongs to the Serranidae family, specifically under Aethaloperca. When young, they resemble species such as Centropyge vrolikii, C. multispinis, and C. nox. These fish can grow quickly when well-fed, reaching a maximum size of 60.0cm. Their distribution spans from the Red Sea to South Africa, and east to the Gilbert Islands in the Indo-West Pacific region.
Aquarium Suitability
Considered suitable with care, the Redmouth grouper is known to be hardy, though they demand a very large tank when fully grown, typically requiring a minimum tank size of 3000 liters. Due to their aggressive nature towards similar fish and their heavy dietary needs, it is recommended to provide hiding spaces, a varied diet including fish and crustaceans, and introduce them to the aquarium before adding more aggressive tank mates.
Care and Hardiness
Hardy in nature, these groupers can display aggression towards other species, making it essential to monitor their interactions with tank mates. They thrive best on their own and can be initially shy in new surroundings, requiring a diverse diet to maintain optimal health.
Reef Suitability
Requiring caution, the Redmouth grouper is considered reef safe with careful observation due to their predatory behavior towards small fish, shrimps, and crabs. They are known to hunt actively when carnivorous food sources are present.
Aquarium Setup
To replicate their natural habitat, the aquarium setup for Redmouth groupers should include ample hiding places among live rocks to provide security. Maintaining stable water conditions with a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, pH of 8.1-8.4, and specific gravity of 1.020-1.025 is crucial for their well-being.
Behaviour
These groupers can exhibit aggressive behavior towards similar fish if not given enough space and resources. They are known to recognize their owners and might become tame over time, showcasing interesting personalities.
Feeding and Diet
Redmouth groupers are carnivorous and require a varied diet consisting of fish, larger crustaceans like shrimp and crabs, as well as smaller crustaceans such as krill, mysis, and artemia, to meet their nutritional needs.
Habitat and Distribution
Found in the tropical waters of the East and West Indian Oceans, Australia, Indonesia, the Red Sea, and the Central/West Pacific, the Redmouth grouper inhabits reefs and rocky areas, preying on various fish, shrimps, and crabs.