Blacktip Grouper

The fish Blacktip Grouper (Epinephelus fasciatus) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its striking reddish to orange coloration with vertical banding, dark-tipped fins, and robust body shape.

Males typically grow larger with more vivid coloration and may display territorial behavior, while females and juveniles are smaller with slightly subdued hues and less dominance in social settings. They reach about 16–18 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 180 gallons.

Provide ample live rock with caves and hiding spots, along with open swimming space, and maintain stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4). A secure lid is essential since groupers are known to be powerful and may jump when startled.

Their diet should consist of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, fish, krill, and high-quality carnivore pellets, as they are natural predators. With proper care, this species makes a bold and impressive addition to large aquariums, though caution is required when housed with smaller tankmates.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.