Blackcap Basslet
Scientific Name : Gramma Melcara
Origin : Caribbean Seas
Temperament : Territorial
Temperature : 72F - 82F
Maximum Size : 4 Inches
Diet : Carnivore
Difficulty : Easy
Reef Safe : Yes
Tank Size : 50 Gallons
The Blackcap Basslet is another beautiful species within the genus Gramma. They are not as common as their cousins, the Royal Gramma and usually command a much higher price when available. They go by the common names, Blackcap Gramma.
The Royal Gramma is collected from throughout the Caribbean Oceans at depths beyond 60 feet. They usually are abundant the deeper down one travels. They are commonly found around rock structure that provides them with holes and caves that they dart in and out of.
The Blackcap Basslet is quite a beautiful species that is primarily a rich purple with a black patch extending from its lip all the way to its caudal fin. The black coloration also covers its eyes.
Their scientific name is Gramma Melcara and they are not considered a cheap fish in the hobby. They can fetch up to $50 per specimen which makes them almost four times as expensive as the common royal gramma. Despite their higher price tag, they are a popular species among hobbyists.
The Blackcap Basslet is not an aggressive species but they will defend their territory against all intruders. The rock scape should reflect their natural habitat and plenty of caves and holes should be made available. Not particularly shy, they are bolder as time passes.
They are a resilient species once they have been acclimated to their surroundings and begun to feed. There are no particular problems with regards to rearing them in captivity which makes them even more popular among the reefing community.
These basslets are all strictly carnivores that roam the rock structure for small prey to feed on. As such, smaller crustaceans such as the sexy shrimp and fish that can fit in their mouth are bad tankmates to consider.
They should be given meaty food on a daily basis. They usually do not accept dry fish food such as flake food or pellets. Some great choices for them include * Mysis Shrimp, * Prime Reef and * Frozen Krill. These basslets usually adapt very quickly to frozen foods after a few days.
Because the blackcap basslet reaches lengths surpassing that of the royal gramma, they should be housed in bigger aquariums no less than 50 gallons. A pretty fish that is hardy and easy to care for.
