Starspotted Grouper (Epinephelus hexagonatus)
Fish in the family Serranidae. Hard care. Not Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Starspotted Grouper exhibits a dark gray to brownish body covered with distinctive bright white or pale yellow spots arranged in a hexagonal pattern—the defining feature giving the species its name. The body is robust and compressed laterally with a slightly rounded head. These spots persist throughout the fish's life and become more prominent under certain lighting conditions.
Diet and feeding
Feed frozen and fresh marine proteins including fish, squid, and shrimp. Offer pieces appropriately sized for the grouper's mouth; juveniles accept small preparations while adults require larger portions. Feed 1–2 times daily.
Difficulty and care for the Starspotted Grouper
The Starspotted Grouper is challenging to maintain in captivity due to its large adult size, specific water-parameter requirements, aggressive temperament, and demanding carnivorous diet. It is best suited to experienced aquarists with established deep-water reef systems.
Common health issues
Parasitic infections, bacterial infections, head and lateral line erosion (HLLE)
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region from the Red Sea and East Africa eastward to the Great Barrier Reef and Polynesia, typically found on outer reef slopes and drop-offs at depths of 20–200 meters.
Log Starspotted Grouper 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 Starspotted Grouper alongside everything else in your reef.
