The Panther Grouper—frequently called the Humpback Grouper or Polka Dot Cod—is an iconic and highly recognizable marine species. Characterized by its unique, sloped profile and a stark white-to-silver body covered completely in bold, midnight-black polka dots, this fish moves through the water with an elegant, undulating swimming style. While juveniles appear beautifully delicate and fit easily into mid-sized tanks, they grow remarkably fast and will quickly turn into massive, powerful apex predators. They are incredibly hardy and develop huge personalities, often begging for food at the glass like an aquatic puppy.
| Attribute |
Detail |
| Scientific Name |
Cromileptes altivelis |
| Care Level |
Easy |
| Temperament |
Semi-aggressive to Aggressive |
| Diet |
Carnivore (Whole fish, shrimp, chunks of raw seafood) |
| Temperature |
22°C – 26°C |
| pH Range |
8.1 – 8.4 |
| Minimum Tank Size |
1,000 Liters |
| Reef Compatible |
No (Safe with corals, but will eat any fish or invert that fits in its large mouth) |