The Blue Dot Grouper (Cephalopholis argus), also known as the Peacock Hind, Bluespotted Grouper, or Celestial Grouper, is a species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Epinephelidae.

Distribution and Habitat

The Blue Dot Grouper is extremely widely distributed, occurring in warm waters from the Red Sea to South Africa and east to French Polynesia and the Pitcairn group. It is also present in northern Australia, Lord Howe Island, and Japan. It prefers the exposed fronts of reefs at depths of up to 40 meters.

Physical Description

This is a medium-sized fish that can reach a length of 60 cm (24 in). Small individuals are dark brown with hundreds of small dark-edged iridescent blue spots. Larger specimens sometimes develop four to six lighter vertical bars on the back half of the body.

Diet and Feeding

The Blue Dot Grouper is a predatory species that feeds on juvenile fish and crustaceans. It hunts by lying on the bottom and surging forward to capture prey. In captivity it should be fed a variety of meaty foods including fish and shrimp.

Behavior and Reproduction

Males defend harems of 2 to 6 females in territories. The male visits each female daily. Territorial disputes may involve color fights in which two males darken their color and repeatedly switch their bars from dark to light. Spawning usually occurs territorially at dusk.

Aquarium Care

It is a hardy aquarium fish for those who have a large marine aquarium. Its large size combined with its aggressive nature means it is best housed either alone or with other large aggressive fish. As a predator it will eat any smaller aquarium inhabitants. It requires a tank of at least 125 gallons.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.