BeginnerPeacefulReef SafeIUCN: Least Concern
Blackcap Basslet
Gramma melacara
Family: Grammatidae · Basslets & Grammas
Also known as: Blackcap Gramma, Black Cap Basslet
(c) Sue, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)
Max Size
4"
Min Tank
30 gal
Lifespan
5-8 years
Origin
Western Atlantic, Caribbean
Diet
Carnivore
Swims
Middle
Did You Know?
- The Blackcap Basslet naturally inhabits much deeper reef zones than its cousin the Royal Gramma, often found at depths exceeding 100 feet on sheer reef walls
- Like the Royal Gramma, the Blackcap Basslet frequently swims upside down beneath ledges, orienting itself toward the nearest surface rather than toward the water surface
About
The Blackcap Basslet is a striking and somewhat lesser-known relative of the immensely popular Royal Gramma, featuring a rich magenta-purple body that deepens into a bold jet-black cap extending from the snout over the top of the head and forward portion of the dorsal fin. This dramatic two-tone coloration creates a sleek, elegant appearance that distinguishes it from its more colorful cousin. While the Royal Gramma displays a purple-to-yellow gradient, the Blackcap Basslet offers a more refined, monochromatic look with its purple and black palette. It reaches a slightly larger adult size of up to 4 inches, giving it a slightly more substantial presence in the aquarium.
In the wild, the Blackcap Basslet inhabits deep reef walls and steep drop-offs in the Caribbean and Western Atlantic, typically at depths ranging from 30 to over 200 feet. This deeper-water origin means it is less commonly encountered in the aquarium trade than the shallow-dwelling Royal Gramma, contributing to its higher price and somewhat exclusive reputation among marine hobbyists. Like its cousin, it is a cave dweller that orients itself toward the nearest surface, frequently swimming upside down beneath ledges and overhangs. It hovers near cave entrances, darting out to snatch passing zooplankton before retreating to the safety of its shelter.
The Blackcap Basslet is an outstanding aquarium fish that combines beauty, hardiness, and peaceful temperament. It is completely reef-safe, readily accepts prepared foods, and adapts well to captive conditions despite its deep-water origins. It requires an aquarium with ample rockwork featuring caves, overhangs, and crevices where it can establish a home territory. While generally peaceful toward dissimilar species, it will vigorously defend its chosen cave using the characteristic Gramma gaping threat display, opening its mouth wide to warn intruders. Only one Gramma species should be kept per tank unless the system is large enough to support separate territories, as conspecific and interspecific aggression between Gramma species can be intense.
Feeding & Diet
Carnivore
Blackcap Basslets are primarily planktivores and small carnivores that feed on zooplankton and tiny crustaceans in the wild. In captivity, they readily accept a wide range of frozen foods including mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, cyclops, and finely chopped krill. They also eagerly consume high-quality marine pellets and flake foods. Feed small portions two to three times daily. Their acceptance of prepared foods makes them easy to maintain nutritionally.
Compatibility
reef-safepeacefulcave-dwellerbeginner-friendlycommunity-safe
Blackcap Basslets are peaceful community fish that coexist well with most reef tankmates including clownfish, gobies, blennies, cardinalfish, and small wrasses. They will aggressively defend their chosen cave from intruders using an open-mouth gaping display. Do not keep with Royal Grammas or other Gramma species, as territorial conflicts will occur. Only one Blackcap Basslet should be kept per tank unless the system is very large with multiple, widely separated cave structures. Avoid housing with aggressive species that may prevent them from accessing food.
Check CompatibilityBreeding
Moderate
Blackcap Basslets are nest builders, similar to their Royal Gramma relatives. The male constructs a nest of macroalgae and other materials within a cave or crevice. After courtship, the female deposits eggs in the nest, and the male guards them until hatching, which typically occurs in 5 to 7 days. Larvae are small and pelagic, requiring rotifers as a first food. Breeding in captivity has been achieved but is less common than Royal Gramma breeding.
Special Requirements
- Provide caves, overhangs, and crevices for shelter and territory
- May swim upside down beneath ledges - this is normal behavior
- Best kept singly or as the only Gramma species in the tank
- Moderate lighting preferred with shaded retreats available
- Deeper-water species - may prefer slightly lower light levels than shallow-water fish
- Less commonly available and higher-priced than the Royal Gramma
Water Parameters
Temperature72–78°F
Specific Gravity1.02–1.026 sg
pH8.1–8.4
Alkalinity8–12 dKH
Coloration
purplemagentablack
Tags
reef-safepeacefulcave-dwellerbeginner-friendlycommunity-safe
