Black Cap Basslet

Here are some interesting facts about the Black Cap Basslet (Gramma melacara):

1. Coloration: The Black Cap Basslet is known for its striking color pattern. It has a dark purple to black body with a contrasting orange or yellowish head, giving it a “black cap” appearance. This makes it quite popular among aquarium enthusiasts due to its vivid and beautiful coloration.

2. Size: These fish are small, typically growing to about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm) in length, making them suitable for smaller aquariums.

3. Habitat: The Black Cap Basslet is native to the Western Atlantic Ocean, primarily found in the Caribbean Sea, Bermuda, and southern Florida. It inhabits reef environments, often found in caves, crevices, and other sheltered spots where it can hide during the day and emerge at night to feed.

4. Behavior: These fish are territorial and can be somewhat aggressive towards others of the same species, especially in confined spaces like aquariums. However, they are generally peaceful with other species. They are also solitary by nature and tend to be active at night (nocturnal feeders).

5. Diet: Black Cap Basslets are carnivorous, feeding primarily on small invertebrates such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and small zooplankton. In the wild, they may also eat tiny crustaceans and other small marine organisms.

6. Lifespan: In the wild, Black Cap Basslets can live for up to 10 years, though their lifespan in captivity may be a bit shorter depending on the aquarium conditions.

7. Tank Requirements: If kept in an aquarium, Black Cap Basslets prefer reef-style tanks with plenty of hiding spots, such as live rock and caves. They thrive in stable water conditions with temperatures between 72-78°F (22-26°C), salinity around 1.023-1.025 specific gravity, and a pH between 8.1-8.4.

8. Breeding: In the wild, Black Cap Basslets are egg-layers and tend to breed in the safety of their caves or crevices. In captivity, breeding is rare but has been observed in well-maintained tanks.

9. Related to Other Basslets: The Black Cap Basslet is part of the Grammatidae family, which includes other small, colorful basslets, like the popular Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto). The Royal Gramma is also known for its vibrant color and similar size.

10. Popularity in Aquariums: Due to their attractive colors and relatively small size, Black Cap Basslets are a popular choice for reef aquariums. However, their territorial behavior and specific care requirements mean they need a well-planned tank setup to thrive.

This species is fascinating not only for its appearance but also for its behavior and adaptability in reef environments.