Clown Grouper - Pogonoperca punctata
Also known as: Leaflip Grouper
The Pogonoperca punctata grows up to 14 inches. The small size will come to you generally 2 to 3 inches; the medium generally 3 to 5 inches; the large generally 5 to 7 inches. The Clown Grouper prefers a tank of at least 80 gallons with plenty of places to hide & swim. The Pogonoperca punctata is a carnivore and likes to eat meaty treats (like krill, small fish, shrimp). The Clown Grouper is a medium maintenance fish and may act aggressively toward other fish. It is a venomous fish, mucus is poisonous. Keep with caution in a reef aquarium; may eat/nip at crustaceans & fish. Since groupers are generally larger fish, it is recommended waste removal efforts be increased within the aquarium system. Pogonoperca punctata (Valenciennes 1830), the Clown Grouper. A shy, unusual-looking Bass family member that makes its way into the trade on a regular basis. Needs plenty of shelter to feel at ease in captivity. Keep water quality high (SG 1.020 - 1.025, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Temp. 72 - 78° F). The Clown Grouper is commonly collected from the Indian Ocean.