Common name: Whitedotted seabass
General information
The Slender Grouper, scientifically known as Trachypoma macracanthus, is a lesser-known species in the aquarium trade but is appreciated by some hobbyists for its unique appearance and behavior. This species is characterized by its elongated body, striking coloration, and the presence of long, pointed dorsal spines. It is not commonly available, so it may be a special order for those interested in keeping this species.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.022 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 25 cm (10″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers rocky overhangs
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys mysis and brine shrimp
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at slow-moving fish
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGroupersSerranidae
- GenusLongfin PerchTrachypoma
- SpeciesWhitedotted seabassTrachypoma macracanthus Günther, 1859
Care
Slender Groupers require a spacious aquarium with plenty of rockwork and hiding places to feel secure. They are predatory fish and need a diet consisting of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and fish flesh. It is important to note that they can grow quite large and may become aggressive towards smaller tank mates, so careful consideration of compatibility is essential.
Reproduction
Little is known about the reproductive habits of the Slender Grouper in the home aquarium. In the wild, groupers are known to be protogynous hermaphrodites, starting life as females and changing to males as they mature. Breeding in captivity is rare and would require a very large system to accommodate their size and behavior.
Habitat
The Slender Grouper is found in the Western Pacific, from the Great Barrier Reef to northern New Zealand. They prefer deeper waters, typically between 30 to 200 meters, where they inhabit rocky reefs and slopes. In the aquarium, replicating their natural environment with a deep, rock-filled tank can help in promoting natural behaviors and overall health.