Peacock Grouper
Cephalopholis argus
Peacock Grouper (Cephalopholis argus) is a reef-dwelling serranid with bright blue spots and a barred brown to olive body. It is an ambush predator of fishes and crustaceans, and in many tropical areas it is a regulated or invasive species rather than a prime sport target.
Identification points
- Dark brown to olive body covered with many small electric-blue spots
- Three or more faint dark vertical bars often visible on the sides
- Rounded tail and stout grouper shape with large mouth and thick lips
Habitat
Shallow tropical coral and rocky reefs, lagoon patch reefs, drop-offs, and reef slopes; commonly rests near ledges, caves, and coral heads from the surf zone to about 100 m deep.
Bait notes
Small live fish, shrimp, squid strips, and cut bait all work well. Brightly colored soft plastics or small jigs fished tight to structure can also draw strikes.
Behavior
A solitary, site-attached ambush predator that feeds mainly at dawn and dusk. It waits in cover and rushes small fishes and crustaceans, often returning to the same shelter.
Caution
Sharp gill covers and heavy structure can cut leaders and hands; handle carefully. In some tropical regions groupers can carry ciguatera risk, and local regulations or marine protected-area rules may restrict harvest.
Fishing notes
Cast or drop baits right beside coral heads, ledges, and holes, then keep steady pressure to keep it out of cover. Use stout tackle and abrasion-resistant leader; it commonly dives hard into structure after hooking.