Coral trout are opportunistic carnivores, eating whatever is available and easy to catch. Their diet mainly consists of:
- Fish: Smaller fish like damselfish, cardinalfish, and other reef inhabitants.
- Crustaceans: Crabs, lobsters, prawns, and shrimp.
- Mollusks: Snails, octopuses, and squid.
- Other invertebrates: Worms, sea urchins, and more.
Coral trout are ambush predators, hiding in crevices and waiting for prey. They have strong jaws and sharp teeth to crush shells and bones.