Candy Basslet

The Candy Basslet is one of the most coveted and expensive marine aquarium fish in the hobby, prized for its exquisite coloration and extreme rarity. Its body features an intricate pattern of alternating lavender-pink and orange-red horizontal stripes, overlaid with fine yellow detailing and accented by delicate blue highlights around the eyes. This candy-like palette of pastel colors has earned it both its common name and a devoted following among collectors willing to pay premium prices for this gem. At a maximum size of approximately 2.5 inches, it is a tiny but extraordinarily beautiful fish.

In the wild, Candy Basslets are found exclusively in the deep reef environments of the southern Caribbean, particularly around Curacao, Bonaire, and the Bahamas, at depths typically ranging from 80 to over 300 feet. This deep-water habitat makes collection extremely challenging and expensive, requiring specialized mixed-gas diving techniques or submersible operations. The species inhabits deep caves and overhangs along steep reef walls, where it leads a secretive existence feeding on small crustaceans and zooplankton in near-darkness. This deep-water origin means that specimens must be carefully decompressed during collection to avoid barotrauma.

The Candy Basslet is classified as an advanced-level species due to its high cost, initial sensitivity, and the care required during acclimation. Once settled, however, it is a surprisingly hardy and long-lived aquarium inhabitant. It requires subdued lighting or ample shaded areas to replicate the low-light conditions of its deep reef habitat. It is peaceful and completely reef-safe, making it compatible with virtually all non-aggressive tankmates. A 30-gallon aquarium with extensive rockwork and deep caves provides an ideal environment. Target feeding near its hiding spots is recommended during the initial acclimation period until the fish becomes confident enough to feed in the open.