IntermediateSemi-AggressiveNot Reef Safe

Golden Grouper

Saloptia powelli

Family: Serranidae · Groupers & Basslets

Also known as: Powell's Grouper, Golden Rockcod

Max Size

12"

Min Tank

125 gal

Lifespan

12-18 years

Origin

Western Pacific, Melanesia

Diet

Carnivore

Swims

Bottom

About

The Golden Grouper is one of the rarest and most visually stunning grouper species available in the marine aquarium trade. Its entire body is a brilliant golden-yellow color, making it an extraordinarily eye-catching centerpiece fish. This species is the sole member of the genus Saloptia, making it taxonomically unique among groupers.

In the wild, Golden Groupers are found exclusively in the Western Pacific, primarily around Melanesia including Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. They inhabit coral reefs and rocky areas at moderate depths, where their golden coloration stands out among the reef structure. Due to their restricted range, they are rarely encountered and remain one of the most sought-after grouper species.

In captivity, the Golden Grouper is a prized and expensive acquisition. At a maximum size of about 12 inches, it is one of the more manageable grouper species for home aquariums, requiring a minimum tank of 125 gallons. It adapts reasonably well to captive conditions but commands a premium price due to its rarity and striking appearance.

Feeding & Diet

Carnivore

A carnivorous predator that feeds on small fish and crustaceans. Offer a varied diet of frozen silversides, krill, shrimp, squid, and high-quality carnivore pellets. Feed every other day for adults. Newly imported specimens may require live food initially before transitioning to frozen preparations.

Compatibility

predatorlarge-fish-onlyFOWLRhigh-bioload

The Golden Grouper is semi-aggressive and will prey on any fish small enough to swallow. Best housed with similarly sized or larger robust species such as tangs, large angelfish, triggerfish, and other groupers. Avoid keeping with small fish, ornamental shrimp, or delicate invertebrates. Its rarity makes it a prized centerpiece fish.

Check Compatibility

Breeding

Not bred in captivity

As the only member of its genus, the Golden Grouper's reproductive biology is poorly studied. Like most groupers, it is presumed to be a protogynous hermaphrodite. Captive breeding has not been attempted or achieved due to the species' extreme rarity.