Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Aggressive

Reef Compatible: No

General Description: The Miniatus Grouper, also known as the Coral Hind, is found across the Indo-West Pacific. The Miniatus grouper is an attractive fish that is bright orange to red in color and covered in vibrant blue-white spots. It’s a shy species when first introduced, but don’t let this fool you. The Miniatus grouper can become an incredibly territorial species over time, but this of course varies individual to individual. Tank mates will often be ignored so long as they cannot be eaten or do not invade the personal space or dwellings of the Miniatus grouper. Juvenile fish are typically offered, but it should be known that your cute and small grouper will grow into somewhat of a behemoth. An adult Miniatus grouper can reach an impressive size of approximately 16″, making the addition of this fish into the aquarium a commitment.

Diet Requirements: In the wild Miniatus groupers are ambush predators (e.g., carnivores). A diet consisting of various proteins such as brine shrimp, squid, mysis shrimp, and other mixed saltwater preparations will maintain optimal health, immune function and coloration. Suitable frozen food options will change as your Miniatus grouper grows. Some groupers have been known to be fussy about accepting prepared foods, and may need to be enticed with feeder ghost shrimp at the beginning in order to encourage such feeding behavior. We do not recommend feeding live fish at all, or relying on live foods as a diet long term because this is not good for the health of your grouper.

Care Requirements: A minimum 125 gallon aquarium is ideal for a small to medium-sized Miniatus grouper, but the tank will likely have to be upgraded as it approaches its full adult size. A Miniatus grouper requires efficient filtration (e.g., canister filter, sump) and ample oxygen in the aquarium. Groupers appreciate some live rock in the aquarium, especially caves to hang underneath during the day, but as it gets larger, will appreciate unobstructed swimming space. Miniatus groupers rarely conflict with tank mates, and given their size potential, can be mixed with more aggressive fish species. Miniatus groupers can show aggression toward other fish trying to hang around their selected dwelling(s). Compatability with other grouper species is variable but usually unsuccessful. Miniatus groupers will eat any fish or invertebrate that can fit in their mouth, making them not reef suitable. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.

Purchase Size: Small: 2-1/2″ to 3-1/2″; Medium: 3-3/4″ to 4-3/4″; Large: 5″ to 6″

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.