Royal Gramma

The Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto), also known as the Fairy Basslet, is a vibrant and peaceful marine fish native to the western Atlantic Ocean, particularly the Caribbean Sea. Its striking purple and yellow coloration makes it a popular choice for reef aquariums.

(REEF SAFE / BEGINNER)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Royal Gramma, Fairy Basslet
• Scientific Name: Gramma loreto
• Family: Grammatidae
• Origin/Habitat: Found in reef environments of the western Atlantic, including the Caribbean Sea.
• Maximum Size: Up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) in length.
• Lifespan: Typically over 5 years in captivity.
• Level of Difficulty: Beginner; suitable for novice aquarists due to its hardy nature and ease of care.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: The front half of the body is a vibrant purple, transitioning to a bright yellow towards the tail.
• Body Shape & Structure: Elongated body with a slightly compressed shape; features a continuous dorsal fin and large eyes.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters) to provide adequate space and territory.
• Water Temperature: 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 25.5°C).
• pH Level: 8.1 to 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: 1.020 to 1.025.
• Aquascape: Incorporate ample live rock with caves and crevices to mimic natural reef structures and provide hiding spots.

Diet & Feeding:

• Diet Type: Carnivorous.
• Preferred Foods: Feeds on plankton and small crustaceans in the wild; in captivity, offer a varied diet including live or frozen brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and high-quality marine pellets or flakes.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 1 to 2 times daily in small amounts.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Generally peaceful; may exhibit territorial behavior towards similar species or fish of similar size and shape.
• Social Behavior: Can be kept singly or in pairs; if keeping multiple, ensure adequate space and hiding spots to reduce territorial disputes.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Compatible with most peaceful reef-safe fish and invertebrates; avoid housing with aggressive species that may bully or outcompete them.
• Activity Level: Moderately active; often seen swimming near rockwork and retreating to caves when threatened.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

• Ease of Care: Hardy and well-suited for beginners; thrives in well-maintained aquariums with stable water parameters.
• Special Requirements: Regular water changes and monitoring are essential to maintain water quality; ensure a secure lid as they may jump when startled.
• Breeding Info: Breeding in captivity is possible; they are egg-layers and exhibit brood care, with males guarding the nest.
• Additional Notes: The Royal Gramma is often confused with the Royal Dottyback (Pictichromis paccagnella); however, the Dottyback has a more aggressive temperament and a distinct color separation between the purple and yellow halves.