LIVING CONDITIONS

The A. grunniens is said to grow to a maximum size of 12 inches, although most of those kept in captivity in the country grow to only about 5 to 6 inches long. They are a medium to large Fish, so a minimum tank size of 35 gallons is a must for one or two Fishes. The tank should also have an adequate filter since this is a carnivorous Fish who is expected to create a lot of bioload. Frequent water change should also keep water parameters in check. It is recommended to have 40% water change weekly.

Being a Fish who can tolerate marine conditions, the A. grunniens prefers water on the alkaline and hard side of the spectrum. A ph of 7.5 – 9.0 and water hardness of 268 – 447 ppm suit the them just fine.

Although ambush predators, they can be kept with other Fishes as they are not really aggressive and territorial. Tankmates, however, must be big enough not to be seen as prey. Of course, slow moving and small Fishes are naturally on the menu. Unless these will not be offered as food for the A. grunniens, don’t keep small Fishes in the same tank.