Common name: bluespotted rockcod
General information
The Bluespotted Hind, Cephalopholis cyanostigma, is a member of the grouper family and is known for its distinctive blue spots and sociable nature. This species is often appreciated by aquarists for its moderate size and interesting behavior.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 35 cm (1′2″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy
- Diet
- Carnivore
- Social
- Solo
- Reefsafe
- No May prey on small fish/inverts
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Territorial, especially with conspecifics
- Captive bred
- No
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGroupersSerranidae
- GenusGrouperCephalopholis
- Speciesbluespotted rockcodCephalopholis cyanostigma (Valenciennes, 1828)
- SynonymsCephalopholis kendalli Evermann & Seale, 1907Cephalopholis xanthopterus Allen & Starck, 1975Epinephelus cyanostigrna (Valenciennes, 1828)Serranus cyanostigma Valenciennes, 1828
Care
Bluespotted Hinds require a spacious tank with plenty of hiding places due to their shy nature. They are carnivorous and thrive on a diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and small fish. It's important to note that they can become aggressive towards smaller tank mates, so careful selection of companions is crucial.
Reproduction
In the wild, groupers are known for their complex reproductive behavior, including the ability to change sex from female to male. However, breeding them in captivity is quite challenging and rarely achieved by hobbyists.
Habitat
Native to the Indo-Pacific region, Bluespotted Hinds are found on coral reefs and rocky substrates. They prefer environments with ample crevices and overhangs where they can seek refuge and ambush prey.