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Crescent Grunter
Category: Brackish Water Hunter

About

The Crescent Grunter (Terapon jarbua) is a ray-finned fish known for its oblong, compressed body and silvery-white color with curved dark stripes and a black dorsal fin blotch. It inhabits marine, brackish, and freshwater areas.

Scientific Name

Terapon jarbua

Habitat

Found in marine, freshwater, and brackish environments such as coastal waters, estuaries, mangroves, and tidal pools.

Conservation

Not currently listed as threatened; adaptable to multiple environments and widespread.

Lifespan

Typically around 5–8 years in the wild.

Fun Fact

Crescent Grunters make grunting sounds using their swim bladder, especially when captured or threatened.

Diet

Omnivorous – eats small fish, insects, algae, invertebrates, and sometimes even fish scales.

Average Size

Can grow up to 30 cm (11.8 inches), but commonly around 20 cm (7.8 inches).

Location / Placement info

Displayed in the Coastal Reef Exhibit, near the Ocean-View Tunnel

FAQ

What is the lifespan of the Crescent Grunter?

Crescent Grunters can live up to 6–8 years in the wild or in well-maintained aquariums.

What do Crescent Grunter fish eat?

They are omnivorous, feeding on small crustaceans, insects, algae, and detritus.

Are Crescent Grunter fish aggressive?

They are moderately peaceful, but may show territorial behavior in smaller tanks.

What is the ideal tank size for Crescent Grunter?

A minimum of 75 gallons is recommended to accommodate their active nature.

Do Crescent Grunter fish need a reef environment to survive?

No, but they prefer brackish or coastal environments with hiding spots and moderate flow.

How big do Crescent Grunter fish grow?

They can grow up to 14 inches (35 cm) in length.

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