Cephalopholis polleni
| Identification | A golden-brown body streaked with horizontal blue-and-yellow lines running from the head across the flanks, with blue-edged fins. A smaller, more manageable deepwater grouper. Also called the Harlequin Grouper. |
|---|---|
| Maximum Length | 17.7″ |
| Origin | Indo-Pacific, deeper reef slopes |
| Minimum Tank Size | 150 Gallon |
| Reef Compatibility | With caution. Will not harm corals, but eats small fish, shrimp and crustaceans. |
Behavior
A hardy, relatively peaceful deepwater grouper that appreciates dim lighting, caves and overhangs. Less bulky than most groupers, making it one of the better choices for a large predator or FOWLR reef. A slow, deliberate hunter.
Diet & Feeding
Meaty foods — mysis, krill, silversides, shrimp and clam, several feedings a week.
Cautions
A deepwater fish — acclimate to light gradually. Will eat fish and shrimp small enough to swallow.