Common name: Sixbar rockcod
General information
The Six-line Grouper, scientifically known as Epinephelus sexfasciatus, is a striking marine fish that is appreciated by aquarists for its vibrant coloration and patterns. This species is characterized by its dark brown to black body with six horizontal white bands, which give it its common name. It is a member of the family Serranidae, which includes groupers and sea basses.
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
- 70 cm (2′4″)
- Care level
- Moderate to difficult Sensitive to water quality.
- Diet
- Carnivore Prefers live or frozen food.
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone.
- Reefsafe
- No May eat smaller fish/inverts.
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Aggressive, especially to conspecifics.
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGroupersSerranidae
- GenusGrouperEpinephelus
- SpeciesSixbar rockcodEpinephelus sexfasciatus (Valenciennes, 1828)
- SynonymsCephalopholis sexfasciatus (Valenciennes, 1828)Ephinephelus sexfasciatus (Valenciennes, 1828)Epinephelus sexfaciatus (Valenciennes, 1828)Serranus sexfasciatus Valenciennes, 1828
Care
Six-line Groupers are relatively hardy and can be a good choice for intermediate to advanced aquarists. They require a spacious tank with plenty of rockwork and hiding places to feel secure. It's important to note that they can become territorial and may show aggression towards smaller tank mates, so careful selection of compatible species is essential. A varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and fish flesh is recommended to maintain their health.
Reproduction
In the wild, Epinephelus sexfasciatus exhibits protogynous hermaphroditism, meaning they are born female and have the ability to change to male later in life. This change usually occurs as they grow larger and more dominant. In the aquarium, breeding these groupers can be challenging due to their size and the need for precise environmental conditions.
Habitat
The Six-line Grouper is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They are typically associated with coral reefs, often seen in lagoons and on outer reef slopes. They can be found at depths ranging from shallow waters to over 90 meters, although they are more commonly observed at around 40 meters.