Brazilian Basslet

The Brazilian Basslet is a striking member of the Gramma family that closely resembles its famous cousin, the Royal Gramma, but with notable differences in both appearance and temperament. Like the Royal Gramma, it displays a vivid purple to magenta anterior half that transitions to a bright yellow posterior, but the Brazilian Basslet is generally more robust in build, has a noticeably larger mouth, and grows to a larger adult size of approximately 3 inches. The coloration tends to be deeper and more saturated, with a less sharply defined boundary between the purple and yellow zones.

Endemic to the reefs off the coast of Brazil, Gramma brasiliensis occupies a more restricted geographic range than its Caribbean relative. It inhabits reef walls and rocky overhangs at moderate depths, where it hovers upside down beneath ledges and cave ceilings - a characteristic behavior shared with the Royal Gramma. In its natural habitat, it feeds on zooplankton and small crustaceans swept past its hiding spots by the current.

While the Royal Gramma is famous for its peaceful disposition, the Brazilian Basslet is notably more assertive and territorial. It will aggressively defend its chosen cave or overhang from intruders, including fish considerably larger than itself. This semi-aggressive temperament must be considered when planning tankmates. Despite its feistier nature, the Brazilian Basslet is completely reef-safe, hardy, and adapts well to captive conditions, making it a rewarding species for aquarists seeking a bolder alternative to the Royal Gramma.