Black Cap Basslet (Gramma melacara)

The Black Cap Basslet is a strikingly beautiful marine fish known for its vibrant coloration and unique black cap on its head. This small but stunning species is a great addition to reef aquariums, offering both beauty and interesting behavior.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 3 inches.
• Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum, with plenty of hiding spots and rock structures.
• Diet: Carnivorous; thrives on a varied diet of high-quality marine pellets, frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, and small live foods.
• Water Temp: 74-80°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Generally peaceful but can be territorial towards its own kind.
• Skill Level: Intermediate; requires a well-maintained and stable environment.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does well with other small reef fish and invertebrates.

Color Variation by Locality

• Caribbean: Typically features a vibrant purple body with a striking black cap, making it easily recognizable.
• Atlantic Variants: May show subtle differences in coloration intensity or pattern, but generally retains its characteristic features​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Native to the Caribbean Sea and the western Atlantic Ocean, commonly found in areas like the Bahamas, Florida Keys, and around coral reefs. This species prefers shallow waters, often hiding among rocky crevices and coral structures