Common name: Grey moray

General information

The Panther Grouper, Gymnothorax griseus, is a striking fish known for its bold polka-dot pattern and robust body shape. It is a species of moray eel found in the Indo-Pacific region. Despite its common name, it is not a true grouper but rather a member of the Muraenidae family. In the wild, these eels are solitary predators, often hiding in crevices and waiting to ambush prey.

Care

Panther Groupers require a large aquarium due to their potential size, reaching up to 60 cm (2 feet) in length. They need plenty of hiding places and a tightly sealed lid, as they are known to be escape artists. These eels are carnivorous and should be fed a varied diet of meaty foods such as fish, squid, and crustaceans. Caution should be exercised when keeping them with smaller fish or invertebrates, as they may become prey.

Reproduction

Reproduction in the home aquarium is rare for Panther Groupers. In the wild, they are oviparous, with females releasing eggs and males fertilizing them in the water column. The larvae are pelagic, drifting in the open ocean before settling down and transforming into juveniles.

Habitat

Panther Groupers are found in coral reefs and rocky outcrops throughout the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They prefer depths ranging from 1 to 50 meters (3 to 165 feet), where they can find ample cover and a rich supply of food.