Buy Neptune Grouper (Cephalopholis igarashiensis) – Regal Spotted Reef Predator

Product Overview

The Neptune Grouper (Cephalopholis igarashiensis)—also known as the Igarashi’s Grouper—is endemic to deep coral slopes of Japan and Taiwan. Its deep lavender-to-purple base color adorned with brilliant blue spots and a pronounced, muscular build make it a revered centerpiece in advanced reef systems.

• Scientific Name: Cephalopholis igarashiensis

• Common Names: Neptune Grouper, Igarashi’s Grouper

• Origin: Western Pacific (Okinawa & southern Japan, Taiwan)

• Habitat: Deep coral slopes (30–80 ft)

• Lifespan: 10–15 years in captivity

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive predator

Why This Fish Is Special

• Extremely limited export quotas—fewer than 100 shipped annually

• Stunning iridescent coloration—electric-blue spots on a purple canvas

• Powerful swimmer—adds movement and drama to large reef tanks

• High survival rate when acclimated by expert aquarists

• Ideal for experienced hobbyists seeking a show-stopping centerpiece

Available Sizes

• Juvenile: ~3.5 inches (9 cm) – Adaptable, perfect for staging growth

• Sub-adult: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) – Coloration deepening, behavior established

• Adult: 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) – Full-bodied, peak pattern contrast

Ethical Sourcing & Compliance

• Collected by licensed marine teams under Japanese export permits

• Quarantine & acclimatization in low-stress, light-controlled facilities

• Routine disease screening and water-quality matching

• CITES-compliant documentation provided for legal import

• Only shipped where marine import regulations permit

Care & Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size:

  • Juvenile: 100 gallons (380 L)

  • Adult: 250+ gallons (950 L)

• Water Parameters:

  • Temp: 74–78°F (23–26°C)

  • pH: 8.1–8.4

  • Salinity: 1.023–1.025 SG

  • Nitrate: <10 ppm

• Diet:

  • Carnivorous—feeder fish, squid, shrimp, high-protein pellets

  • Feed 3–4 times weekly for adults; daily for juveniles

• Behavior & Compatibility:

  • Semi-aggressive—best with robust tankmates (e.g., large tangs, wrasses)

  • Avoid housing with small or timid species

  • Provide rockwork caves for ambush-style behavior

Shipping & Packaging Details

• Ships From:

  • North America: Los Angeles Hub

  • Europe: Rotterdam Hub

  • Asia-Pacific: Singapore Hub

• Methods:

  • Premium Air Cargo (international)

  • Express Courier (FedEx/UPS Aramex)

  • In-house same-day courier in select metros

• Packaging Protocols:

  • Double-bagged with oxygen infusion

  • Ammonia neutralizers, stress-relief additives

  • Thermal insulation (heat/cold packs)

  • Labeled: Live Aquatic Animal – Handle With Care

✅ Live Arrival Guarantee

• Valid only on first delivery attempt

• Unboxing video required within 1 hour of receipt

• Store credit or replacement for valid DOAs

• No returns due to ethical and legal constraints

• 24/7 support via live chat or support@luxuryfishshop.com

Specifications Table