Serranidae – Grouper

Groupers belong to the family of Serranidae. The most common genus of this family of fish found in the aquarium trade is Cephalopholis. Groupers belonging to the genera Variola, Cromileptes, and Grammistes. Many of the groupers grow very large (over 12 inches) in an aquarium and frequently outgrow the average-sized aquarium.

The largest member of grouper family can attain a size of over eight feet in the wild. They are closely related to Pseudochromis. Interestingly some Groupers are called Soapfish, and can secrete a mucus of poisons to ward off predators. Groupers are found throughout the world, and are commonly associated with coral reefs or rocky areas. Many are solitary in the wild, spending their time in caves or overhangs, waiting for a passing meal. The diet of these fish comprises fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods.