Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Territorial

They are peaceful but reclusive and territorial over their favorite cave. They use gaping mouth displays to ward off potential threats. They are a deeply rewarding and beautiful deep-water gem.

Diet

Carnivore

They are strictly carnivorous. A diet of mysis shrimp, chopped seafood, and vitamin-enriched brine shrimp is perfect. They will quickly learn to accept high-quality pellet foods as well.

Sex ratio

Solitary

Keeping a single specimen is the standard recommendation. Pairs can be attempted if added at the same time in large tanks. Males are highly intolerant of each other.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

Two small feedings per day are recommended. They are eager feeders that will dart out of hiding to eat. Keeping them well-fed significantly reduces any minor territorial aggression.

Bioload

The Blackcap Basslet contributes a minor bioload to the system. Their small size makes them very manageable for medium setups. Standard protein skimming keeps their environment pristine.

Flow

Strong

They prefer a moderate water flow environment. Coming from deep water drop-offs, they appreciate steady currents. They require caves where the flow is reduced for resting.

Jump risk

Yes

There is a moderate jump risk, especially when initially introduced. Startled basslets might dart upward instead of into a rock. A tight-fitting lid is strongly advised for their safety.

Reproduction

Oviparous

Like the Royal Gramma, they build nests in small crevices. The male tends to the eggs with impressive dedication. Breeding them in home aquaria requires specialized rotifer feeding for fry.

Compatibility & tankmates

Reef safe

They are a reef-safe and generally peaceful community fish. They get along with most similarly sized tank mates. They will assert dominance over other basslets and similar shaped species.

Tank level

Middle/Bottom

They stick closely to the middle and lower rockwork. They prefer dimly lit caves or overhangs to mimic their deep-water origins. They rarely swim out in the open brightly lit water.