Spottail Grunt
NameSpottail Grunt
Scientific NameHaemulon maculicauda
Common NamesSpottail Grunt, Spotted Grunt
FamilyHaemulidae
OriginEastern Pacific Ocean, Gulf of California, Baja California, Peru
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)180
Max Size (Inches)14
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-78
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesLarge Angelfish, Tangs, Groupers (of similar size), Triggerfish (cautiously), Other Grunts
Description
The Spottail Grunt is a marine fish known for its silvery body covered in numerous horizontal rows of small white spots, which can appear as broken lines. It features a distinctive dark spot at the base of its caudal fin, giving it its common name. This active species is native to the Eastern Pacific, where it typically forms schools over rocky reefs.
