Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Aggressive

Reef Compatible: No

General Description: The Polleni Grouper, also known as the Harlequin Hind, is found across oceanic islands in the Indo-West Pacific. Here, they inhabit steep drop-offs up to depths of 400 feet (150 meters), making this a species that is somewhat rare in the aquarium trade but a true stand out when it is offered. The Polleni grouper may be one of the most attractive in the genus, with a yellow-green body and vibrant pink-purple stripes. The Polleni grouper is a shy species when first introduced, but don’t let this fool you. It can become a 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 Polleni 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 Polleni grouper can reach an impressive size of approximately 14″, making the addition of this fish into the aquarium a commitment.

Diet Requirements: In the wild Polleni 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 Polleni 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. Groupers are known to learn to beg for food, but do not feed this species more than once a day as this can lead to obesity.

Care Requirements: A minimum 125 gallon aquarium is ideal for a small to medium-sized Polleni grouper, but the tank will likely have to be upgraded as it approaches its full adult size. A Polleni 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. Polleni groupers rarely conflict with tank mates, and given their size potential, can be mixed with more aggressive fish species. Polleni 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. Polleni 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: Medium: 3″ to 4-1/4″

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