Cephalopholis Miniata (The Coral Grouper)

Overview

• Native to the Indo-Pacific, frequently found in coral reefs, rocky outcrops, and deep reef slopes.
• Recognized for its bright red to orange body covered in numerous small, iridescent blue spots.
• A predatory species known for its ambush hunting techniques and territorial behavior.
• Can grow to a considerable size and requires a spacious tank with ample swimming and hiding areas.
• Best suited for an established marine aquarium with rock structures and tankmates of similar size and temperament.

Feeding

• Carnivorous, primarily preying on fish, crustaceans, and other small marine animals.
• Accepts high-quality marine pellets, frozen shrimp, squid, and live feeder fish.
• Requires a protein-rich diet to maintain its striking coloration and overall health.
• Should be fed multiple times a day to satisfy its predatory nature and reduce aggression.
• Prefers live prey but can adapt to frozen and prepared foods over time.

Habitat

• Typically found in rocky and coral reef environments where it can ambush prey.
• Prefers stable water conditions with moderate to strong water flow.
• Aquarium setups should include caves, overhangs, and crevices for hiding and territorial establishment.
• Requires a well-maintained marine tank to prevent stress-related health issues.
• Providing shaded areas and well-defined territories helps reduce aggression and stress.

Fish Care

• Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) for maintaining metabolic health.
• Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
• Requires powerful filtration and routine water changes to control waste buildup.
• Needs an aquarium large enough to accommodate its territorial behavior and predatory nature.
• Providing live rock formations enhances its environment and supports natural behaviors.

Compatibility

• Highly territorial and best housed with larger, robust fish species.
• Compatible with other large groupers, tangs, and aggressive marine fish.
• Not reef-safe, as it will prey on smaller fish and invertebrates.
• Should not be housed with timid or smaller fish that may become prey.
• Providing ample swimming space and rock structures helps mitigate aggressive tendencies.

Aquarium Behavior

• A dominant species that establishes a specific territory within the tank.
• Often found lurking near rock formations, waiting to ambush prey.
• Can exhibit aggressive behavior towards tankmates if its space is encroached upon.
• Providing a well-structured tank with caves and hiding spots supports its natural instincts.
• Over time, it may become more interactive with its caretaker, particularly around feeding times.