Species Description…

Scientific Name: Epinephelus cyanopodus

Common Name: Speckled Blue Grouper

Species Group: Grouper

Habitat: Fish Only

Care Level: Advanced

Temperament: Highly Predatory

Diet Type: Carnivore

Role in Aquarium: Predator

Max Fish Length: 24 (inches)

Min Aquarium Size: 200 (gallons)

Native Range: do-Pacific, including Indonesia, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea

Epinephelus Cyanopodus - The Speckled Blue Grouper

Epinephelus Cyanopodus (The Speckled Blue Grouper)

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, commonly inhabiting coral reefs, rocky slopes, and lagoons.
Recognizable by its distinctive coloration, featuring a brownish body with numerous blue speckles scattered across its skin, especially around the fins and head.
A robust, predatory fish known for its territorial behavior and active hunting habits.
Typically solitary, preferring to remain within its territory, patrolling frequently to guard its area.
Best suited for large, mature aquariums with ample hiding places, rock formations, and stable water parameters.

Carnivorous, primarily consuming smaller fish, crustaceans, and other marine invertebrates in the wild.
Thrives on a diet consisting of frozen seafood items such as shrimp, squid, krill, and chopped marine fish.
Accepts live food readily, though usually adaptable to frozen or prepared diets with ease.
Feed two to three times weekly, managing portion sizes to maintain water quality and prevent obesity.
A varied diet promotes optimal health, vibrant coloration, and overall longevity.

Typically inhabits reef-associated environments with ample rock formations, caves, and crevices for hiding and ambush opportunities.
Frequently observed patrolling its territory, occasionally resting within cave structures or rock shelters.
Aquarium setups should replicate natural conditions, featuring structured rock formations, ample hiding spots, and open swimming space.
Stable, high-quality water parameters and moderate water flow are essential for maintaining optimal conditions.
Providing naturalistic habitats reduces stress, encourages territorial establishment, and promotes natural behaviors.

Optimal water temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C), essential for proper metabolism and overall health.
Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, maintaining salinity levels consistently at 1.020-1.025.
Regular water changes, effective filtration, and vigilant monitoring of water conditions are crucial to maintain pristine water quality.
Not reef-safe due to its predatory nature; likely to prey on smaller fish and ornamental invertebrates.
Providing adequate hiding places, structured territories, and stable conditions significantly reduces stress and supports long-term health.

Predatory and aggressive, best housed with similarly sized or larger fish that can handle its territorial nature.
Compatible with large angelfish, triggerfish, large wrasses, and other semi-aggressive or aggressive marine species.
Should never be kept with small or timid fish, as they will likely become prey.
Ideally suited for predator-focused aquariums where interactions and competition can be managed effectively.
Ample hiding areas and structured territories minimize aggression and enhance aquarium harmony.

Active predator, often patrolling its territory and actively searching for prey within the aquarium.
Frequently displays territorial behaviors, including chasing intruders and defending preferred hiding spots.
Initially cautious, but quickly adapts to aquarium life, becoming increasingly interactive and visible.
Providing structured environments with ample hiding spots encourages natural hunting and territorial behaviors.
Over time, it typically becomes accustomed to its caretaker, responding enthusiastically during feeding sessions and demonstrating increased visibility and interaction.