More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 3500 litres / 924.60 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 122.0cm / 48.03inches |
| 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 Speckled Blue Grouper, also known as the Speckled Grouper, Blue Mori Cod, or Purple Rockcod, is a species in the Epinephelus genus of the Serranidae family. These fish initially display a vibrant blue hue with yellow fins in their youth, evolving into a mature appearance of grey with distinct black spots.
Aquarium Suitability and Demands
Considered suitable with care for aquariums, these groupers grow rapidly when adequately nourished. However, their demanding nature necessitates a spacious tank, especially as they mature, warning against confinement in typical home aquarium setups due to their substantial size requirements.
Care and Hardiness
Categorized as hardy, these groupers exhibit aggression towards similar fish species if not allocated sufficient room, displaying high activity levels and a tendency to consume substantial quantities of food, necessitating a robust aquarium ecosystem.
Reef Suitability
Reef safe with caution, the Speckled Blue Grouper might exhibit aggression towards other species, emphasizing the need for careful consideration when introducing them to a reef environment.
Aquarium Setup
To accommodate the Speckled Blue Grouper, a tank of a minimum size of 3500 liters, with plentiful hiding spots such as live rocks, is recommended. The setup should also allow ample swimming space for the species to thrive.
Behaviour
These groupers are known for their potentially aggressive behavior towards similar species and their inclination to swim actively, emphasizing the importance of a spacious tank with suitable hiding places.
Feeding and Diet
Their diet primarily consists of fish and larger crustaceans such as shrimp and crabs, requiring a varied food intake to thrive in captivity.
Dimorphism (and captive reproduction If covered)
These groupers are hermaphroditic, capable of transitioning from female to male as needed for reproduction in captivity, displaying intricate gender dynamics within their species.
Habitat and Distribution
Native to the Western Pacific region, the Speckled Blue Grouper can be found from southern Japan to southern Queensland and eastward to Fiji and the islands of Micronesia, with recent sightings in Tonga, although their presence in Western Australia's Indian Ocean remains uncertain.