Common name: bluelined hind
General information
The Blue-spotted Grouper, Cephalopholis formosa, is a striking fish known for its vibrant blue spots against a yellow to greenish background. This species is part of the Serranidae family, which includes groupers and sea basses. It is a popular choice among advanced aquarists due to its bold colors and interesting behavior.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.026
- Temperature
- 22 to 28 °C (72 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 7.8 to 8.4
- Average size
- 40 cm (1′4″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs hiding places
- Diet
- Carnivore Prefers live/frozen foods
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- No May eat smaller fish/inverts
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Aggressive towards tank mates
- Captive bred
- No
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGroupersSerranidae
- GenusGrouperCephalopholis
- Speciesbluelined hindCephalopholis formosa (Shaw, 1812)
- SynonymsSciaena formosa Shaw, 1812
Care
Blue-spotted Groupers require a large aquarium with plenty of hiding places, as they can grow up to 40 cm in length. They are predatory fish and should only be housed with other large, non-aggressive species that they cannot eat. A varied diet of meaty foods such as fish, squid, and crustaceans is essential for their health.
Reproduction
In the wild, Blue-spotted Groupers are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they start life as females and can change to males as they mature. Breeding in captivity is rare and challenging, often requiring large systems and expert care.
Habitat
Native to the Indo-Pacific region, Blue-spotted Groupers are found on coral reefs and rocky outcrops. They prefer areas with clear water and moderate to strong currents, where they can ambush prey.