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(calloplesiops altivelis)
Saltwater
Found in the Indo-Pacific Ocean region, this fish is called "exotic" by many aquarists. It is a chocolate brown with white spots all over the head and body. Its eye is encircled in a light, almost neon, blue. Very handsome! This grouper is a very hardy fish which rarely succumbs to diseases or poor water quality. (Water quality should remain optimum, despite this fish's resistance.) This fish is a "demersal" spawn-er, meaning that it lays its eggs under ledges and in holes. Also known as a Comet Grouper and a Sea Betta, this fish is not rare, yet it is not always easy to find. Get it when you can!
Size: med. 2 1/2' to 4 1/2"; most are 3" to 4"; maximum size 8"
No. in Tank: One, unless the aquarium is rather large.
Tank: min. 60 gallons
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Food: (Carnivore) This fish is a meat eater. Offer live items such as shrimp and fish. Other foods to offer include krill, sliced shrimp and crustacean flesh. Feed 2 to 4 times a WEEK.
Light: Medium - dim light encourages less hiding.
Adaptation: Lots of hiding nooks and crannies, plus room to swim, is needed. A dark cave in which to hide and rest will help this fish thrive. An excellent water filtration system is needed, due to the large amount of waste this fish will produce. With time, this grouper will remain in the open longer. Also, it will get to recognize you, often begging for food when you approach.
Compatibility: This fish is not reef safe. It will eat crustaceans and smaller fish. If it will fit in the mouth and can be swallowed, this fish will eat it. In order to really thrive, peaceful and/or semi-aggressive tank-mates are required. Tank-mates who are more aggressive than this fish will cause it to hide in its dark cave for protection. Other groupers, except its own kind, are compatible with this fish.
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