Common name: dogtooth grouper
General information
The Canine Grouper, scientifically known as Epinephelus caninus, is a lesser-known species in the aquarium trade but is appreciated for its unique appearance and behavior. This species is characterized by its robust body, large mouth, and distinctive canine-like teeth, which are the inspiration for its common name.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 500 liter (130 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 28 °C (72 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 60 cm (2′)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs large space & hiding spots
- Diet
- Carnivore Prefers live or frozen meaty foods
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- No May eat smaller fish & inverts
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Aggressive, especially when mature
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGroupersSerranidae
- GenusGrouperEpinephelus
- Speciesdogtooth grouperEpinephelus caninus (Valenciennes, 1843)
- SynonymsCerna canina (Valenciennes, 1843)Serranus caninus Valenciennes, 1843
Care
Canine Groupers require large aquariums due to their potential size, often reaching up to 60 cm in length. They need ample swimming space and hiding places to feel secure. As predatory fish, they should be fed a varied diet of meaty foods such as fish, squid, and crustaceans. Care should be taken to ensure that tank mates are not small enough to be considered prey.
Reproduction
In the wild, Canine 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 expert care and a very large system to accommodate their size and spawning behavior.
Habitat
Canine Groupers are found in the tropical western Atlantic, from Florida and the Gulf of Mexico to Brazil, including the Caribbean Sea. They inhabit rocky reefs and drop-offs, typically in depths ranging from 10 to 50 meters. In the aquarium, their environment should mimic these conditions with a focus on rockwork and open areas for swimming.