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Aquaria Now - The Panther Grouper (Cromileptes altivelis)
Aquaria Now Home > Fish Profiles:
Panther Grouper - Cromileptes altivelis (Valenciennes, 1828)
| Family |
Distribution |
Max. Size |
pH |
Temp. |
Breeding |
|
Serranidae
|
Western Pacific
|
20"
|
Alkaline
|
75-80° F.
|
Unreported
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| Diet |
Swim Range |
Temperment |
Sociability |
Min. Tank |
Availability |
|
Carnivorous
|
All Ranges
|
Aggressive
|
Solitary
|
135 gallons
|
Common
|
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Notes
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Cromileptes altivelis, most commonly known as the Panther Grouper, is a large fish from the family Serranidae that occurs in the Indo-Pacific. It is a hardy species but due to its size it is not a fish for the average aquarist.
The fish is large in size, the head being elongate and slender. Juvenile coloration displays large black spots on a white body. As the fish matures the spots become smaller but more plentiful. This explains one of its many common names, the "Polka-dot" Grouper.
Panther Groupers grow rapidly. A 3" juvenile will require a 100 gallon aquarium within a year. Keep the tank clear of too many obstructions to allow the fish as much open swimming space as possible.
C. altivelis is a carnivorous predator that needs a constant supply of live or meaty foods. They appreciate live fish to prey on, but once acclimated to the aquarium they can be taught to take fish meat or beef heart.
These Groupers should be kept in typical Indo-Pacific water conditions. Keep the pH high, around 8.4, and the salinity between 1.023 and 1.025.
Breeding habits and sexing of C. altivelis is unknown.
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