Clown Grouper

Clown Grouper, Pogonoperca punctata, is known by a host of alternate names including the Snowflake Grouper, Spotted Soapfish, and Leaflip Grouper. Recognized by its grey and brown mottled body, white spots, and black pendant-shaped markings along its dorsal, it is a beautiful that should be kept only by the most advanced aquarists or aquatic research facilities. When the Clown Grouper is in duress (or upon expiration), it emits toxins that can harm or kill aquarium mates. Though it grows to lengths over one foot in the wild, it is still preyed upon by other fish. Its toxic slime coating is an incentive for other, larger fish to find food elsewhere. Because these toxins are likely to be excreted during shipment, it is extremely important to follow all steps in the PETSOLUTIONS Tried & True Acclimation Procedure. Water from the acclimation bag must never enter the destination aquarium. Once established, it has little interest in corals, but may likely eat any fish that will fit into its mouth. Crustaceans, being part of its natural diet, will likely be eaten. Being an opportunist predator, it welcomes a diet of smaller live fish upon which it can prey, as well as frozen krill and other meaty prepared foods. Members of the Grouper family should be kept in larger aquariums. Because "high input" fish are also "high output" fish, an excellent filtration and biological system should be in place prior to introduction. Groupers should only be kept with other aggressive carnivores such as Triggers and Eels.

This fish requires special care and is traditionally difficult to keep. It is, therefore, recommended only for the advanced aquarist or for aquatic research facilities.

Approximate Arrival Size for Clown Grouper: Small: 2-3.25"; Medium: 3-4.5"; Large: 4.75-6.25"; XLarge: 6.5-7.5"

Detailed Information about this species.