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(pogonoperca punctata)
Saltwater
Native to the Indo-Pacific Ocean region, this "For the Expert" fish is toxic. When it becomes stressed it emits toxins, which can kill tank-mates. This poison is a form of protection, in the form of a slimy coating on the body. These excretions may also be excreted during shipment, due to stress. For this reason, shipping water should not be transferred into the aquarium during the acclimation process. The body of this grouper is a mottled grayish-brown with speckled dots throughout the body and head. There are also triangular shaped markings along the dorsal sides of the fish. As juveniles, rather than triangular, the are shapes are circular, on the belly and filled with spots. This fish is also known as a Spotted or Snowflake Soapfish, a Clown Soapfish and a Leaf Grouper.
Size: sm. 1 1/2"-2"; med. 2"-3 1/2"; lg. 3 `/1"-5"; maximum size is 14"
No. in Tank: One
Tank: min. 80 gallons
Temperament: Aggressive
Food: (Carnivore) Feed meaty items such as sliced shrimp, crabs, krill, fish and crustacean flesh. Feed 2 to 4 times a WEEK.
Light: Medium
Adaptation: This fish needs lots of room to swim with rocks, caves and tunnels. The young and the newly introduced are often shy at first, becoming more bold as time progresses. An excellent water filtration system is a must due to the high volume of waste materials this fish produces. CAUTION: Do not allow any water from the shipping container to enter the aquarium during introduction. Shipping is a stressful event for any fish, yet with this fish, a toxic substance, which can kill your aquarium's occupants, is often emitted during shipment and wil be in the water.
Compatibility: This fish will eat any fish or crustacean it can fit in its mouth and swallow. It will also eat cleaner fish. Other groupers do well with this fish, which does best with tank-mates which are large and can protect itself from this grouper's aggression.
**FOR THE EXPERT ONLY**POISONOUS/TOXIC**HARD TO FIND
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