Fin's Fish Guide
The Argus grouper (Cephalopholis argus) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The peacock hind is a grouper of the family Serranidae from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 60 cm and has a dark-brown body densely covered with small, blue-edged ocelli, often with a few pale vertical bars at the rear. Adults are bottom dwellers of varied coral habitats, from tide pools to deeper reef. As an ambush predator it feeds mainly on fishes and crustaceans. The peacock hind is locally an important food fish, but large specimens can contain ciguatera in tropical areas; therefore do not eat large reef specimens from risk areas.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Argus grouper?
The Argus grouper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Body strewn with small, blue-rimmed eyespots; large specimens may contain ciguatera.
Where does the Argus grouper live?
The Argus grouper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; varied coral habitats, from tide pools to deeper reef.
How big does the Argus grouper get?
The Argus grouper grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Argus grouper dangerous to humans?
The Argus grouper is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The flesh can contain ciguatera in tropical areas; do not eat large reef specimens from risk areas. In case of poisoning (tingling, gastrointestinal symptoms, temperature-reversal sensation), seek medical care.
Is the Argus grouper edible?
The Argus grouper is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cephalopholis
More from the family Serranidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Argus grouper is one of 12,519 species in the app.