Common name: Deady

General information

The Red Hind, also known as the Strawberry Grouper, is a colorful and popular species among saltwater aquarium enthusiasts. Epinephelus guttatus is known for its distinctive red to reddish-brown body covered with small, irregularly shaped pale spots, which give it a strawberry-like appearance. This species is part of the Serranidae family, which includes groupers and sea basses.

Red Hinds are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they start life as females and can change to males as they mature. This fascinating aspect of their biology is often a topic of interest among hobbyists and researchers alike.

Care

In the aquarium, Red Hinds require a large tank with plenty of hiding places and room to swim. They are carnivorous and should be fed a varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and fish. It's important to note that they can become territorial and may not be compatible with smaller fish or invertebrates, as they might prey on them.

Reproduction

In the wild, Red Hinds form spawning aggregations, which are large groups that gather to reproduce. In the aquarium, breeding is less common, but with careful attention to their environment and diet, it may be possible to encourage spawning behavior.

Habitat

The Red Hind is commonly found in the Western Atlantic, from North Carolina to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. They inhabit coral reefs and rocky substrates, often hiding in crevices during the day and emerging at dusk to feed.