Also known as the Cherry Grouper or Louti Skunk Grouper it is a very nice looking fish sporting a deep red color throughout the body and light blue to white spots all over them. As juveniles they will have a white belly that fades into black and red. They should not be kept with shrimp or small fish that they will mistake for food. They are great for fish-only tanks and not recommended for reef tanks as they will eat small fish and inverts. Groupers come from a family of fish known as Sea Bass. These fish have stout bodies with large mouths filled with more than one set of teeth and will use a powerful suction to engulf their prey by quickly opening their mouths. Their prey is swallowed whole instead of being chewed. These fish can grow up to almost 3 feet in length and should  be kept in a minimum tank size of 250 gallons. Feed them a diet of frozen thawed or live saltwater foods such as shrimp, krill, clams, and silver sides 1-2 times per day.  

Lyretail Grouper (Variola louti) - Enhance Your Saltwater Aquarium with this Captivating Species

The Lyretail Grouper (Variola louti) is a captivating marine species that has gained popularity among saltwater aquarium enthusiasts for its striking appearance and unique characteristics. As a responsible hobbyist, it is crucial to understand various aspects of this species to ensure their well-being in captivity.

Habitat of Lyretail Grouper:

From the Indo-Pacific region, Lyretail Groupers are commonly found in coral reefs, rocky areas, and lagoons. Their natural habitat provides ample hiding spaces among crevices and coral formations. When recreating their environment in captivity, it is essential to incorporate plenty of hiding spots to help them feel secure.

Reef Compatibility:

Lyretail Groupers are generally not considered reef-safe, caution should be exercised when keeping them with smaller fish or invertebrates, as their predatory instincts may kick in. House them in a fish-only tank or carefully selecting tank mates that can coexist peacefully is advisable.

Size and Lifespan:

Lyretail Groupers are known for their impressive size, with adults reaching up to 36 inches in length. As a long-lived species, they can thrive in optimal conditions for more than a decade, making them a substantial commitment for dedicated hobbyists.

Diet in Captivity:

In captivity, Lyretail Groupers require a diverse diet to ensure their nutritional needs are met. A well-balanced diet should include a combination of high-quality pellets, frozen seafood, and occasional live or frozen feeder fish. Providing a varied diet contributes to their overall health and enhances their vibrant coloration.

Aquaculture and Availability:

Lyretail Groupers are not as commonly aquacultured as other marine species, making them a coveted addition to the aquarium trade. Saltwaterfish.com is proud to offer these beautiful fish to hobbyists, ensuring they are sourced responsibly and sustainably.

Compatibility with Other Fish and Invertebrates:

Careful consideration should be given to selecting tank mates for Lyretail Groupers. Larger, non-aggressive species like Tangs, Triggerfish, and Lionfish can be suitable companions. However, it is crucial to monitor their interactions to prevent any aggression or territorial disputes.

Sexual Dimorphism:

Lyretail Groupers exhibit minimal sexual dimorphism, making distinguishing between males and females based on physical characteristics challenging. In a community tank, it is advisable to maintain a single individual or a mated pair to minimize potential territorial conflicts.

Juvenile to Adult Coloration Changes:

As Lyretail Groupers mature, their coloration changes. Juveniles often display a more subdued color palette, while adults exhibit vibrant hues and intricate patterns. This color transformation adds visual interest to the aquarium, making it a captivating species to observe.

Temperament:

While generally peaceful, Lyretail Groupers can become territorial as they grow. It is recommended to introduce them to the aquarium as juveniles and monitor their behavior closely. Providing adequate hiding spots and maintaining a well-balanced environment can help mitigate any potential aggression.

Tank Requirements for Lyretail Grouper:

• Minimum aquarium size of 250 gallons is recommended.
• The tank should include ample live rock for hiding places and a substrate miming their natural environment. Adequate filtration is essential, and regular water changes are crucial to maintain optimal water quality.

Optimal Water Conditions for Lyretail Grouper:

• Maintaining optimal water conditions is crucial for the health of the Lyretail Grouper.
• Parameters include a pH level between 8.1 and 8.4, salinity ranging from 1.020 to 1.025, water temperature ranges from 75°F to 82°F, and water flow is moderate to simulate their natural habitat.

Other Common Names:

Lyretail Groupers may also be known by various common names, including Lyretail Grouper, Comet Grouper, and Brown-Marbled Grouper.

Five Compatible Tank Mates for Lyretail Grouper:

• Emperor Angelfish (Pomacanthus imperator)
• Harlequin Tuskfish (Choerodon fasciatus)
• Naso Tang (Naso lituratus)
• Panther Grouper (Cromileptes altivelis)
• Blue Throat Triggerfish (Xanthichthys auromarginatus)

Why Choose Lyretail Grouper from Saltwaterfish.com:

Saltwaterfish.com is committed to providing high-quality marine species to hobbyists. When you choose Lyretail Groupers from Saltwaterfish.com, you can trust that these fish are sourced responsibly, ensuring the well-being of the animals and the ecosystems they come from. Our dedication to sustainability and ethical practices makes us a reliable source for enthusiasts seeking vibrant and healthy marine life for their aquariums.