Which grouper species uses signals to recruit moray eels for cooperative hunting?

Which grouper species uses signals to recruit moray eels for cooperative hunting? The answer is the roving coral grouper.

In the Red Sea, roving coral groupers (Plectropomus pessuliferus) have been observed recruiting giant moray eels (Gymnothorax javanicus). The grouper approaches a moray’s resting place and performs a rapid head-shaking signal.

The moray then leaves its crevice and follows the grouper toward prey hiding in reef holes. The eel can enter narrow crevices and flush prey into open water, while the grouper is positioned to catch escaping fish.

This partnership benefits both predators because their hunting abilities are complementary. The grouper’s visual signal is also dependent on hunger: satiated groupers are much less likely to initiate cooperative hunts.