Origin
Found throughout the Indian Ocean, particularly along the east coast of Africa, Seychelles, Maldives, and Sri Lanka. Inhabits deep coral slopes and rocky reef drop-offs.

Visual & Behavioral Appeal
Dark indigo or violet-blue body contrasted with bright yellow fins. Coloration deepens with maturity. Behavior is slow, commanding, and territorial—this grouper will often perch on rocks or slowly stalk the tank.

Purpose
Suited for large predator-focused displays or public aquaria. Showcases reef predator behavior and coloration rarely seen in smaller systems.

Importance
Helps educate on trophic roles in reef ecosystems and the challenges of maintaining large marine carnivores. Popular in marine education and display tanks for its unique presence.

Included Resources
Requires extremely robust filtration, protein skimming, strong current, and ample rockwork to establish territory. Sump, UV, and auto-top-off systems are strongly recommended.

Best Use Cases
Public aquaria, ultra-large predator tanks (500+ gallons), or educational reef predator exhibits.

Conservation Context
Vulnerable to overfishing in parts of its native range due to slow growth and size appeal. Captive propagation is limited, making ethical sourcing critical.

Ideal Aquatic Species
• Other large aggressive fish (e.g., lionfish, eels, large wrasses)
• Sharks or rays (if system allows)
• Avoid all small fish and inverts—they’ll be eaten

Region (A)
• Latitude: -4.6191° S
• Longitude: 55.4513° E
(Seychelles — Indian Ocean coral reef slopes)

Region (B)
• Latitude: 6.9271° N
• Longitude: 79.8612° E
(Southwest Sri Lanka — reef channels and rocky ledges)