Blue Stripe Grunt (Haemulon sciurus)
The Caribbean Blue Stripe Grunt is a vibrant and energetic addition to large saltwater aquariums. Known for its bright blue horizontal stripes running along a yellow-to-silver body, this species adds bold color and constant motion, creating an authentic Caribbean reef atmosphere in your tank.
Native to Caribbean reefs, seagrass beds, and sandy areas, Blue Stripe Grunts appreciate plenty of open swimming space along with rockwork for shelter and security. They are generally peaceful and do best when housed with other similarly sized tank mates, though they may become more assertive as they mature.
This species is hardy and adapts well to captivity, readily accepting a carnivorous diet of meaty frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and small fish.
| Specifications |
|---|
| Scientific Name: Haemulon sciurus |
| Size: Up to 12 inches (30 cm) |
| Water Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C) |
| Water pH: 8.1–8.4 |
| Water Hardness: 8–12 dGH |
| Compatibility: Peaceful with similarly sized fish; avoid aggressive species |
| Diet: Carnivorous; accepts frozen meaty foods |
FAQ
What is the ideal tank size for a Blue Stripe Grunt?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended to provide enough open swimming space and suitable rockwork for shelter.
Is the Blue Stripe Grunt aggressive toward other fish?
Generally peaceful, but may become more assertive as it matures. Best suited with similarly sized, non-aggressive tank mates.
What type of food does the Blue Stripe Grunt eat?
It is carnivorous and accepts meaty frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and small fish.
Christopher Vaughan –
The Blue Stripe Grunt is a stunning addition to my 120-gallon reef tank. It’s active and colorful, adding a lively presence. I feed it mysis shrimp twice a week and it eats readily. It’s peaceful with my other fish and enjoys the open space. A great choice for saltwater enthusiasts looking for bold, dynamic fish.
Jennifer Dowd –
I’ve had this grunt for six months now. It’s very active and its blue stripes stand out in the tank. It does need plenty of open space and some rock cover for security. Feeding it frozen shrimp is easy and it’s always hungry. Not the quietest fish, but it brings energy to the tank.
Carl MacLeod –
The fish arrived healthy and has been thriving in my 100-gallon tank. It swims constantly and looks vibrant. I appreciate the color and movement it brings. I keep it with a few other peaceful fish and it coexists well. Easy to care for and a joy to watch.