Black Cap Basslet

Discussion in 'Tropical Fish' started by jeremy_a, Oct 31, 2008.

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  1. jeremy_a

    jeremy_a Feather Duster

    Joined:
    Oct 22, 2008
    Messages:
    211
    Location:
    Columbus, IN
    I was wondering if anyone has any experience with Black Cap Basslets. I have read different opinions about aggressiveness from peaceful to semi aggressive. It would be a first fish in a 29 Gallon and I don't want to run into problems later. thanks
     
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  3. {Nano}Reefer

    {Nano}Reefer Dragon Wrasse

    Joined:
    Aug 9, 2008
    Messages:
    2,196
    heres what marinedepot has to say -

    Maximum Size: the Gramma melacara grows up to 4 inches.
    General Size Specifications: The small size will come to you generally 1 to 2 inches; the medium generally 3 to 4 inches; the large generally 5 to 6 inches not including the caudal fin.
    Minimum Tank Size: The Black Cap Basslet prefers a tank of at least 20 gallons with plenty of places to hide & swim.
    Diet: The Gramma melacara is a carnivore and likes to eat variety of foods, especially meaty treats (fish & crustaceans).
    Level of Care: The Black Cap Basslet is a low maintenance fish.
    Behavior: The Black Cap Basslet may act peaceful (but may become territorial)ly toward other fish.
    Hardiness: This is a hardy fish.
    Water Conditions: Keep water quality high (SG 1.020 - 1.025, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Temp. 72 - 78° F).
    Range: the Caribbean.
    General Notes: Gramma melacara, the Black-Cap Gramma (or Basslet if you must), is considered one of the most desirable inhabitants in a reef system by many hobbyists. It add a striking flash of color with it`s brilliant purple body, jet black diagonal cap and frosty-white forked tail. Will perch in caves, overhangs and shaded areas. May tend to get a little aggressive and territorial with fish of similar family or shape.
     
  4. lunatik_69

    lunatik_69 Giant Squid

    Joined:
    Jul 10, 2007
    Messages:
    7,933
    Location:
    Miami, FL
    I have one going on 2 yrs now and he's great. At first he was a little aggressive, opening his month real big trying to intimated the others, but now hes just one of the pack. My only suggestion is, if your going to add one, I would make him the last one you add. Luna
     
  5. jeremy_a

    jeremy_a Feather Duster

    Joined:
    Oct 22, 2008
    Messages:
    211
    Location:
    Columbus, IN
    Thanks, that was I was wondering about. My plan was to get one later, but I saw my "lfs" had 4 in stock. I don't want to have problems later down the road when I add another fish.
     
  6. feixjai

    feixjai Fire Worm

    Joined:
    Apr 18, 2008
    Messages:
    163
    I've had mine for 3 or 4 months now and hes a great addition. He was the last fish I added into the tank. At first he was really shy when I would come up to the tank to feed or if someone walks by the tank. He never really bothered any other fish, but once in awhile he would open his mouth toward chromis' that swim by his cave. Now he is really out in the open just watching the outside of the tank and waiting for food. IMO as long as there is enough LR in the tank with lots of crevices and caves for it and other fish, it should be fine.