Flagtail Grunt (Kuhlia mugil)

Fish in the family Kuhliidae. Moderate care. Not Reef Safe.

Flagtail Grunt

Quick facts

Scientific nameKuhlia mugil
FamilyKuhliidae
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyNot Reef Safe
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietomnivore
Adult size12 in
Minimum tank size75 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025
Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

Silvery body with distinctive black and white vertical bands on the tail fin (hence the common name). Rounded body shape with moderately sized eyes and an end-oriented mouth.

Diet and feeding

Kuhlia mugil are omnivorous feeders that consume small crustaceans, zooplankton, and some vegetable matter in the wild. In captivity, offer a mix of small meaty foods (frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp) and quality flake or pellet food 2–3 times daily.

Difficulty and care for the Flagtail Grunt

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region, including Hawaii, Micronesia, and Australia; found in coastal and brackish waters.

Log Flagtail Grunt in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Flagtail Grunt alongside everything else in your reef.