Bluespotted Grouper

Cephalopholis cyanostigma

A reef-associated grouper from the western Indian Ocean and adjacent seas, recognized by its blue spotting and variable dark body. It lives around coral and rocky slopes, where it ambushes small fish and crustaceans from cover.

Saltwater

Bluespotted Grouper reference image — Rickard Zerpe, cc-by, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Identification points

Dark brown to reddish body with many small bright blue spots over the sides and head
Robust grouper shape with a large mouth and thick head
Tail fin often rounded to slightly truncate, with no elongated filaments

Habitat

Coral reefs, reef slopes, lagoons, and rocky areas with broken cover, usually from shallow water down to moderate depths in tropical Indo-Pacific settings.

Bait notes

Small live baitfish, squid strips, shrimp, and cut bait are effective. Compact jigs and soft plastics worked tight to reef structure can also draw strikes.

Behavior

A solitary ambush predator that stays close to structure, feeding mainly on small fishes and crustaceans. Like other Cephalopholis groupers, it is most active around shelter and will rush prey from short range.

Caution

Reef-associated grouper species can carry ciguatera risk in tropical regions; local consumption advisories matter. Its sharp gill plates and spiny fins can also cut handlers.

Fishing notes

Fish it close to coral heads, ledges, and drop-offs with short, accurate presentations. Slow jigging, bottom fishing, and live-baiting near cover are the most practical approaches; handle carefully and avoid prolonged air exposure.