More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 100 litres / 26.42 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 10.0cm / 3.94inches |
| Reef Compatible | Always reef safe |
| Temperament | Docile but might be aggressive towards similar species of same gender |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The Royal Gramma Basslet, scientifically known as Gramma loreto, belongs to the Grammatidae family. These fish are recognized for their vibrant colors, typically showcasing a purple anterior that fades into a golden-yellow posterior. They are relatively small, with a maximum size of around 10.0cm and are commonly referred to as Fairy Basslets.
Aquarium Suitability
Considered suitable for most aquarium setups, Royal Gramma Basslets are a hardy and peaceful species. They are known to be docile but may display aggression towards similar species of the same gender. These fish prefer hiding spots in the form of vertical rocks in their environment and benefit from a minimum tank size of 100 liters to ensure ample space for cohabitation.
Care and Hardiness
With a reputation for hardiness, Royal Gramma Basslets are generally easy to care for. They are shy by nature and require adequate hiding places, especially when newly introduced to an aquarium. Due to their docile temperament, caution is advised when housing them alongside more aggressive tank mates. These fish thrive in water conditions with a pH range of 8.1-8.4, a temperature between 22.2-25.6°C, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025.
Reef Suitability
Royal Gramma Basslets are considered reef-safe, making them an excellent addition to reef aquariums. Their compatibility with reef environments allows aquarists to enjoy their beauty without the concern of them causing harm to coral or other invertebrates.
Aquarium Setup
Creating an ideal habitat for Royal Gramma Basslets involves providing vertical rocks with numerous hiding places to mimic their natural environment. This species thrives in aquariums with a capacity of over 100 liters and benefits from a varied diet consisting of small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia, as well as zooplankton such as cyclops and pods.
Behaviour
Royal Gramma Basslets exhibit a peaceful nature but may engage in territorial disputes with similar species, particularly those of the same gender. It is essential to monitor their interactions, especially if multiple Basslets are housed together, to prevent aggression and ensure a harmonious tank environment.
Feeding and Diet
These fish require a varied diet to thrive in captivity. Their nutritional needs are met by consuming small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia, as well as zooplankton such as cyclops and pods. Providing a balanced diet is crucial for the health and well-being of Royal Gramma Basslets.
Dimorphism
Royal Gramma Basslets do not exhibit pronounced visual differences between males and females, making it challenging to differentiate the two based on appearance alone.
Habitat and Distribution
Naturally found in the Western Central Atlantic, including regions from Bermuda and the Bahamas to northern South America, Royal Gramma Basslets inhabit reef environments characterized by rocky structures and ample hiding spots. Their distribution in the wild underscores their adaptability to diverse marine ecosystems.