Every time I need to make a point about marine fish that are sold as small, cute juveniles but grow into real behemoths, the panther grouper (Cromileptes Altivelisaccording toFishbase/Chromileptes altivelisaccording to这是) is one of several species that come to mind immediately. But despite its indisputable tankbusting tendencies,C. altivelisis very hardy, interesting, and well worth its sea salt if you have the space to spare.
Physical traits
Let’s get right to the panther grouper’s tankbusting size—which isn’t exaggerated, by the way. This Indo-Pacific species can grow to exceed 27 inches in total length. Even specimens that fall well short of that maximum are still fish to be reckoned with.
White to light brown in base coloration with black polka dots all over its body and fins,C. altivelisis an attractive species—and especially endearing as a juvenile. Adults often exhibit larger tan-colored patches in addition to the polka dots. The head of the fish is relatively small compared to its deep body, giving rise to another of this species’ common names—humpback grouper (other common epithets include barramundi cod and polka dot grouper).
Feeding
C. altivelis都是捕食者，以小鱼和甲壳类动物为食。圈养标本不是挑食者，几乎可以接受提供的任何肉类食物。沿切碎的鱼类，整银，虾，蛤和贻贝的物品都是不错的选择。有些标本也可以学会接受颗粒食品（例如新生命谱大型鱼类配方），但您不能依靠它。每隔一天只喂两次。
Housing
这个石斑鱼需要两个放大器e swimming space for cruising as well as an abundance of rockwork caves and ledges to hide in/under. That should tip you off that a really big tank is in order. I wouldn’t go any smaller than 200 gallons. Also, the panther grouper is a messy eater and copious waste producer, so efficient filtration, oversized protein skimming, and frequent water changes are a must.
Compatibility
C. altivelisisn’t particularly aggressive, but it will eat any fish or crustacean small enough to fit in its mouth. This is the most important consideration with respect to choosing tankmates. Otherwise, it will tend to leave most other fish alone. Though the panther grouper won’t directly harm sessile invertebrates, it’s not an ideal candidate for reef systems owing to its prodigious maximum size and the high level of dissolved pollutants it’s apt to generate.
