Origin
Distributed across tropical and subtropical marine waters globally, particularly in deep reef slopes, coastal rock formations, and drop-offs. Found in the Indo-Pacific, Atlantic, and Mediterranean regions.

Visual & Functional Appeal
Displays a jet-black to bluish body covered in small white or silver star-like dots. Its rigid, thick-set body and beak-like mouth contribute to its armored, alien appearance. Slow and deliberate in movement, adding a prehistoric feel to predator tanks.

Purpose
A center-stage predator fish, often used as a feature animal in large FOWLR (Fish-Only with Live Rock) or predator reef displays. Its hunting and feeding behavior adds depth and fascination to marine tank dynamics.

Importance
Appeals to advanced marine keepers and public aquariums due to its size, resilience, and unusual appearance. Not reef-safe but often included in high-end predator systems for its behavior and bold aesthetic.

Included Resources
Requires strong filtration, ample swimming space, protein skimming, and regular enrichment. Needs a secure lid to prevent injury or escape. Cannot be kept with small fish or inverts due to predation risk.

Best Use Cases
Suitable for 300+ gallon FOWLR setups, predator tanks, or species-only marine displays. Not appropriate for community reef tanks. Often housed with other large, aggressive marine predators.

Conservation Context
Not currently under threat, but its size and niche appeal mean wild collection pressure should be monitored. Sustainable collection and responsible long-term housing are encouraged.

Ideal Aquatic Animals
• Groupers
• Large wrasses
• Triggerfish
• Eels (morays)
Avoid: small fish, shrimp, crabs, and anything with slow movement or delicate fins

Region (A)
• Latitude: 12.8797° N
• Longitude: 121.7740° E
(Philippines – Indo-Pacific population)

Region (B)
• Latitude: -25.2744° S
• Longitude: 133.7751° E
(Northern Australia – common regional observation)