Polleni Grouper - Cephalopholis polleni

The Polleni Grouper is rarely seen in the aquarium trade because it is a deep-water fish and bolts into hiding when approached by divers. It should be housed in an aquarium with a cave in which it can hide. This species is shy when acclamating and will defend its hiding place from intruders. It will eat any fish small enough to fit into its mouth, as well as many ornamental crustaceans.

The Polleni Grouper is found on reef slopes and dropoffs in deep water. It is often seen in caves and reef recesses, swimming upside-down under the roof of the cave. It is usually found at depths greater than 150 feet.

Like all groupers, the polleni had a voracious appetite and is easy to maintain.

 Polleni Groupers require large aquariums with excellent filtration to accomodate their size and feeding habits. As Polleni Groupers eat large meals they end up producing a lot of waste products, which means they need excellent filtration (especially biological and mechanical) in order to keep the water quality high.

While this species is not harmful to corals, it is best suited for fish-only aquariums as it will eat any fish that it can fit in its mouth and will eat most any type of crustacean.

Polleni Groupers live near the fringes of coral reefs in the wild, they should be provided an aquarium environment that contains both live rock formations and open swimming areas. They do best with other large predatory species (triggerfish, eels, sharks, etc.) or with adult semi-aggressive species (large angelfish, tangs, etc.).

Thrives on meaty items. Offers such things as krill, shrimp, and feeder fish. Crustacean flesh is also a good option. Feed 2 to 4 times a WEEK.

Safe with corals but will eat ornamental shrimps and crabs and any fish it can swallow.