Miniatus Grouper/Panther Grouper Complete Beginner to Saltwater, Full Care Guide and Setup

[Nathan_Kaminski]

Hey, I have had many freshwater aquariums before, and I want a saltwater. I am willing to do a build of about 180-200 gallons for a grouper. I don't mind having any tanks mates, either a Panther or Miniatus. I don't know how to do a build, how to maintain and keep saltwater fish in a tank, and I don't know much care. I am really set on getting these fish, but I know nothing about the hobby. I am willing to use money, time, and resources to keep them alive.

 

[nereefpat]

A standard 180 (6x2x2) would be decent species tank for a miniatus. Fishbase has a max length of about 20", but I would plan on closer to a 15" fish, give or take.

The panther groupers get huge, though. They really aren't a good fish for any hobbyist. Pretty when small, and a bit ugly when grown. The Google images for panther grouper will blow your mind, if you haven't already seen the adult ones.

For building the tank, I would just start with a standard 180. Then drill an overflow for a sump of 40-55 gallons. I would get a good skimmer for any predator tank, as feeding can be messy. Add rock and sand.
For feeding, meaty seafood stuff would be best. It might be worth breeding mollies, if you care to do that.

Lion king added this species to a tank of his: https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/miniatus-grouper.781665/
He could probably help with specific question too. I've kept a similar grouper, but I wouldn't call myself a grouper expert.

I wouldn't rule out tankmates. A tang or two, or angel or butterfly, or even an eel if it's the right one would be a good display.

 

[tuan12321]

Try to get an 6-8ft tank if you can. I would look into a v-tail grouper as another tank mate instead of the panther as they get too large. Also, large tangs and angels work well with groupers.