Royal gramma
Gramma loreto · Grammatidae
Also known as Fairy basslet
Beginner
Purple-to-yellow, cave-dwelling and perfect for a small reef; hovers rather than swims.
In short: A royal gramma needs at least 110 L (29 US gal), water at 23–27 °C (73–81 °F) and pH 8.1–8.4. It is peaceful, usually kept singly, and rated beginner to keep.
- Minimum tank
- 110 L (29 US gal)
- Temperature
- 23–27 °C (73–81 °F)
- pH
- 8.1–8.4
- Adult size
- 8 cm (3.1 in)
- Group size
- 1+
Reef & marine husbandry
- Specific gravity
- 1.023–1.026
- Reef safety
- Reef safe
- With corals
- Reef safe.
- With inverts
- Reef safe.
- Minimum in a mixed reef
- 110 L (29 US gal)
- Minimum fish-only (FOWLR)
- 110 L (29 US gal)
- Aggression
- Defends its cave with an open-mouth display, nothing more.
- Feeding
- Twice daily.
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 110 L (29 US gal)
- Temperature
- 23–27 °C (73–81 °F)
- pH
- 8.1–8.4
- Hardness
- 8–12 dGH
- Lifespan
- 5–10 years
- Diet
- Carnivore — mysis, enriched brine, small pellets.
- Care level
- Beginner
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Caribbean
- Water type
- Saltwater
- Biotope
- Reef caves and ledges
- Natural conditions
- Moderate flow with plenty of shaded rock.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 1 fish
- Swims
- Mid-water
- Good tank mates
- ClownfishGobiesFirefishCleaner shrimp
- Avoid
- Other GrammaDottybacks
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Intermediate
- Sexing
- Males are larger with a longer dorsal filament.
- Notes
- Male builds a nest of algae in a cave.
- Common ailments
- Marine ichBacterial infection after shipping
Will it fit your tank?
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