Tomato Rockcod

The Tomato Rockcod is a strikingly beautiful grouper that displays a rich tomato-red body adorned with scattered bright blue spots, creating a vivid and eye-catching appearance. Growing to around 22 inches, it is a medium-to-large grouper that commands attention in any marine aquarium with its bold coloration and confident personality.

In the wild, this species inhabits coral reefs, rocky outcrops, and lagoons throughout the Indo-Pacific region. It is typically found at depths of 10 to 150 meters, often lurking near caves and crevices where it ambushes passing prey. Its diet consists primarily of fish, crabs, and other crustaceans, which it captures with the characteristic explosive strike common to all groupers.

In captivity, the Tomato Rockcod is a hardy and adaptable fish that readily accepts frozen and prepared foods. A minimum of 180 gallons is necessary to house this species comfortably, with ample rockwork providing caves and hiding spots. While not reef-safe due to its predatory habits, it makes a stunning centerpiece fish in large FOWLR setups alongside other robust species.