Common name: Golden grouper

General information

The Leopard Grouper, Mycteroperca rosacea, is a striking species known for its distinctive spotted pattern and robust body shape. It is a member of the family Serranidae, which includes groupers and sea basses. This species is not as common in the aquarium trade as some other groupers, but it is appreciated by hobbyists for its unique appearance and interesting behavior.

Leopard Groupers can grow quite large, reaching up to 86 centimeters in length in the wild. They are predators, feeding on a variety of smaller fish and invertebrates. In the aquarium, they require a large tank with plenty of swimming space and rockwork to simulate their natural habitat.

Care

Leopard Groupers are hardy fish but due to their size, they require a spacious aquarium of at least several hundred gallons. They are not suitable for reef tanks as they will readily consume smaller fish and invertebrates. A varied diet of meaty foods such as squid, shrimp, and fish is essential for their health. It's important to feed them appropriately sized portions to prevent obesity.

Reproduction

In the wild, Leopard Groupers are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they start life as females and can change to males as they mature. They form spawning aggregations, which are not commonly observed in home aquariums. Breeding them in captivity is challenging and not typically undertaken by hobbyists.

Habitat

Leopard Groupers are found in the Eastern Pacific, from the Gulf of California to Peru, including the Galapagos Islands. They prefer rocky reefs and kelp beds, where they can find shelter and hunt for prey. In the aquarium, replicating this environment with ample rockwork and open swimming areas can help in providing a suitable habitat for these groupers.