Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Aggressive

Reef Compatible: No

General Description: The V-Tail Grouper, also known as the Flagtail Grouper, is found across the Indo-Pacific. Named accordingly for the pair of bright white stripes in its caudal fin that make a ‘V’ shape, the V-Tail grouper is otherwise a rusty red color with this coloration becoming darker as you move anterior to posterior. The V-Tail grouper is a shy species when first introduced, but will become more confident overtime and will almost ignore every other fish in the aquarium so long as they cannot be eaten or do not invade the personal space of this species. Juvenile fish are typically offered, but it should be known that your cute grouper will grow into somewhat of a behemoth. An adult V-Tail grouper can reach an impressive size of approximately 18″, making the addition of this species into the aquarium a commitment.

Diet Requirements: In the wild V-Tail 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 V-Tail 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 V-tail grouper, but the tank will likely have to be upgraded as it approaches its full adult size. A V-Tail 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. V-Tail groupers rarely conflict with tank mates, and given their size potential, can be mixed with more aggressive fish species. V-Tail groupers can show aggression toward other fish trying to hang around their selected dwelling(s). Compatability with other grouper species is variable. V-Tails 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: Large: 5” to 6”

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