Hourglass Basslet (Lipogramma levinsoni)

The Hourglass Basslet (Lipogramma levinsoni) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Banded Basslet, is a small deepwater species that is indigenous to Bonaire, Curaçao, and St Eustatius in the Caribbean and ranges throughout the Caribbean and West Atlantic to Dominica, San Salvador, Jamaica, and the Netherlands Antilles.

The Hourglass Basslet is a small, peaceful, demersal basslet that is encountered alone and often in pairs hovering among the small rocky rubble that is found on the gradual slopes of the deep outer reefs at depths from 300 to over 500 feet.

When approached by deep diving submersibles, the Hourglass Basslet will quickly disappear into the rubble on the slopes which makes capturing them difficult.

The Hourglass Basslet has an elongated, compressed body with a large eye large, a short snout, long, slightly pointed pectoral fins that reach past the base of the anal fin, round slightly pointed rear dorsal and anal fins and a rounded caudal fin.

Hourglass Basslet (Lipogramma levinsoni)

The Hourglass Basslet has a snowy white to tan body color that is gray on the nape with three broad, black to dark brown vertical bars spaced  across the body.   The first bar starts at the forehead, intersects the entire eye and ends below the throat.   The second hourglass shaped bar starts at the lower dorsal fin and ends around the rear of the pectoral fins.  The third hourglass shaped bar begins at the rear base of the dorsal and ends at the rear base of the anal fin.

The dorsal fin is gray at the base with large brown to black blotches at the base above the second and third bars, painted at the rear with very light blue markings and bordered at the top by an orange margin.  The bluish gray anal fin mimics the colors on the dorsal with the same orange margin, and the translucent blue gray caudal fin has an orangish base.  The long pectoral fins are a light whiteish blue color that becomes slightly more blue at the rounded tips.

Males and females are unsexed.

Because they are collected by submersibles at depths from 300 to 500 feet, the Hourglass Basslet requires pristine water quality and a dimly lit tank with an aquarium chiller to maintain their optimal 67⁰F temperature requirements.   They are best housed alone or in pairs in a mature reef tank of at least 20 gallon capacity with a finely crushed coral or sandy substrate, plenty of live rock arranged into crevices, caves, and ledges for them to hide among, and sufficient swimming area.

Hourglass Basslets are peaceful, extremely shy, and will shelter or hover above their cave or crevice most of the time.  They are completely reef safe and will not disturb corals, decorative clams, or most other reef inhabitants.

In a reef or FOWLR aquarium, they should never be kept with aggressive tankmates. Although peaceful tankmates like Chromis or Dartfish should be able to be kept with them, because of their small size, they are best enjoyed as a single species.

To date, the Hourglass Basslet has never been bred in an aquarium environment.

In their natural habitat, Hourglass Basslets are carnivores that feed primarily on zooplankton and tiny microorganisms.   In an aquarium environment, they will accept small micron foods like baby brine shrimp, LRS Reef Frenzy Nano, PE Calanus, Brightwell Aquatics Zooplanktos, or crushed up dried foods.

Because of the rarity of the species and depths that it frequents, the Hourglass Basslet (Lipogramma levinsoni) is rarely available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts.

In addition to being difficult to catch, Lipogramma levinsoni are collected at depths from 300 to over 500 feet, which is well beyond the limits of scuba divers and most rebreather divers.

Specimens are normally collected by marine submersibles and decompressed in the same manner as the Golden Basslet (Liopropoma abberans).

Despite the factors that contribute to its rarity and five figure selling price; the Hourglass Basslet (Lipogramma levinsoni) is occasionally available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts online from a select few specialty rare fish wholesalers and retailers on a back order basis at prices starting at $1,699.99 per individual, with an approximate 1 month lead time.

Hourglass Basslet (Lipogramma levinsoni)

Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 68°F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.0 – 8.5, sg 1.020-1.026
Max size: 1.5″
Color Form: White, Black, Brown, Blue, Orange
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: Reef OK
Origin: Indigenous to Bonaire, Curaçao, and St Eustatius
Family: Grammatidae
Lifespan: Unknown
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate/Expert

Three Line Basslet (Lipogramma trilineatum)

The Threeline Basslet (Lipogramma trilineatum) found in the western Atlantic Ocean from the waters off S.E. Florida, south through the Bahamas, into the Gulf of Mexice and the Caribbean Sea, and along the coasts of Central and South America from Quintana Roo, Mexico to Nicaragua, and the seas off Cartagena, Venezuela at Curacao and Bonaire, is a deep water species that is rarely available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts.

The Threeline Basslet is a shy, reclusive, carnivore that lives along the outer walls and in the deeper reefs of their range under corals and rocky ledges at depths between 70 to over 498 feet where they feed on zooplankton, small fish, and invertebrates.  Even though the Threeline Basslet has been encountered in shallow waters, most of the specimens collected have been by submersibles from deep water.

Three Line Basslet (Lipogramma trilineatum)

The Threeline Basslet has has an elongated, compressed body with large eyes, a short snout, and a wide mouth that sits at the bottom front of the head. The upper part of the head, the back, and majority of the dorsal fin is a reddish orange to yellowish color. The yellowish scales are outlined in a greenish brown color that darkens toward the caudal peduncle and gives it a bluish gray color.

They have three thin black edged deep blue lines on the head; one directly on top that runs from the lower lip along the center of the snout into the dorsal fin, one line behind the upper eye that runs up over the front third of the body, and another short line visible just under the eye. The pelvic, anal, caudal and rear portion of the dorsal fins are a translucent pale blue with light yellow spots, and a light blue line runs along the outer margin of the dorsal fin.

Juvenile Threeline Basslets are colored similarly to adults except for the blue eye stripe that extends along the upper side to the upper end of tail base. They have an additional blue stripe that extends from the upper base of the pectoral fin to the tne of the lower part of the caudal peduncle.

Because the Threeline Basslet is collected from very deep water, they are best housed in a mature, dimly lit FOWLR or reef tank of at least 20 gallon capacity with a crushed coral substrate and plenty of live rock arranged into numerous caves, crevices, and overhangs for them to take shelter among. They are reef safe with corals but will eat small crustaceans and invertebrates if they can get them into their mouth. Because of the extreme depths they are collected from, they require low, dim lighting conditions, cool water temperatures, and pristine water quality for them to thrive. An aquarium chiller, a good reef filtration system, and regular water changes is recommended to keep this species healthy and vibrant.

Threeline Basslets are extremely shy and will shelter in their cave or crevice most of the time. They should never be housed in a reef or FOWLR aquarium with aggressive tankmates or they could starve to death. Even with peaceful tankmates like Chromis or Dartfish, they will never become social, outgoing tankmates, and wll always stay close to their hiding area.

Lipogramma trilineatum have not been bred in an aquarium environment.

In their natural environment, Threeline Basslets feed on zooplankton, small crustaceans, and tiny fish that may venture into their territory. In an aquarium environment, they should be provided with a varied diet of fresh or frozen marine fish, finely chopped clams, Hydrozoa polyps, Mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, crustacean flesh, etc. Finely chopped enriched freeze dried foods and even carnivore flake foods can also be offered to three times a day.

The Threeline Basslet is another rarely encountered deep water species that is seldom available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts.

In addition to being difficult to catch, Lipogramma trilineatum are found at depths to over 500 feet, which is well beyond the limits of scuba divers and most rebreather divers.

Most specimens are collected by marine submersibles and decompressed in the same manner as the Golden Basslet (Liopropoma abberans).  Additionally, its range has been invaded by lionfish, an invasive species in the western Atlantic, which prey on both juvenile and adult Lipogramma trilineatum.

Despite the factors that contribute to its rarity and five figure selling price; the Threeline Basslet (Lipogramma trilineatum) is occasionally available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts on a back order basis with a 1 to 2 month lead time from a select few specialty rare fish wholesalers and retailers online at prices starting at $1,199.99.

Although it is not as elegant and graceful looking as some of the other Lipogramma species, the Threeline Basslet will continue to command a high price to anyone who is willing to pay for it.

Three Line Basslet (Lipogramma trilineatum)

Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 68⁰-77 °F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.0 – 8.5, sg 1.020-1.026
Max size: 1.4″
Color Form: Orange, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: Reef with Caution
Origin: Aruba, Curacao, Florida, Gulf of Mexico, Jamaica, Mexico (East Pacific), Puerto Rico, The Bahamas, the Netherlands Antilles, USA, West-Atlantic Ocean
Family: Grammatidae
Lifespan: 3 – 4 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate/Expert

Golden Basslet (Liopropoma abberans)

The Golden Basslet (Liopropoma abberans) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Eye-Stripe Basslet is found in extremely deep waters from Curacao to North Carolina.

Although the Golden Basslet occurs in the Gulf of Mexico to the South Caribbean, it lives at extreme depths making it just barely out of reach of Florida and other Atlantic fish collectors.   Their range includes The Bahamas, the Caribbean, USA, Belize, Cuba, Curacao, Gulf of Mexico, Jamaica, Lesser Antilles, and the West-Atlantic Ocean.

The Golden Basslet has a compressed, pointed head with a moderately elongated body, and a rather large mouth with a slightly protruding lower jaw. The split spinous dorsal fins, pectoral, anal, and slightly forked caudal fins are all pointed.

Golden Basslet (Liopropoma abberans)

The Golden Basslet has small rough scales over its body, and colors that are unbelievably vibrant.   They have a rosy orange to salmon colored head and mid body, with a bright yellow stripe that runs from the snout, through the center of the black eye to the corner of the operculum.  The lower two thirds of the body is salmon colored and the upper third is either yellow or salmon colored with dense yellow blotches.   The pectoral fins are clear, and the dorsal, anal, pelvic, and anal fins are yellow.  The yellow caudal fin has a large reddish brown blotch in its center, and is bordered by white.

Juvenile Eye-Stripe Basslets are completely yellow with just a faint orange glow on their bellies.  As they mature their yellow underbody morphs into the beautiful orangish red color of adults.

The Golden Basslet (Liopropoma abberans) is similar to the Wrasse Basslet (Liopropoma eukrines) andCave Basslet (Liopropoma mowbrayi).

Like many other deep water basslets, the Golden Basslet is a shy, solitary species that is normally found alone or in widely spaced groups in small caves or holding next to solitary rocks where they can ambush their prey at extreme depths from 450 to over 800 feet.

Golden Basslets seem to prefer areas around sandy slopes or near little piles of rubble where they are almost always found waiting in ambush hidden behind the rocks.   In some areas, two or three individuals are encountered in the same general area, but they are always at a distance of at least 10 to 15 feet apart from each other.

The Golden Basslet is best housed in a mature, deep water FOWLR or reef aquarium with a fine crushed coral substrate and copious amounts of live rock arranged into caves, nooks, overhangs, and plenty of live Mysis shrimp or other live foods for them to eat.  Although they are considered reef safe with corals, they will eat decorative shrimp and crabs.  Because of the extreme depths they are collected from, they require low, dim lighting conditions, cool water temperatures, and pristine water quality for them to thrive.  Golden Basslets will benefit from cooler temperatures in the 60-68 degree range, but over time can be acclimated to temperatures in the low to mid 70s.

A chiller system is mandatory as is a good reef filtration system.   Once successfully acclimated, this species is incredibly adapted to captivity and can live a very long time with proper care.

The Golden Basslet has not been bred in an aquarium environment and little is known about their breeding habits.

In their natural deep water environment, Liopropoma abberans are aggressive hunters that feed on just about anything that moves.  In an aquarium environment, they require plenty of live or frozen meaty foods to thrive, however, getting them to eat is never an issue.  Golden Basslets definitely have an appetite and will generally eat almost anything you feed them.  Large pieces of fish, krill, Mysis shrimp, fresh cut shrimp, and even carnivore flakes will be accepted.

The Golden Basslet (Liopropoma abberans) is one of the rarest, most beautiful fish ever brought up from the depths and despite its five figure selling price, is available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts on a special order basis with a 1 to 2 month lead time, from a few specialty rare fish retailers, however, there are some things you need to know before you shell out the cash for this rare species.

In addition to being difficult to catch, Golden Basslets are most often found at depths between 350 and 800 feet.    The majority of specimens that have been collected are with deep water submersibles between 350 to 500 feet, which is way over the limits of scuba divers and well beyond the limit of most rebreather divers.

Normally, most deep water Mesophotic zone fish are collected by rebreather divers and placed into a pressurized chamber where the pressure is slowly bled off over the course of a few days, but because  these fish are caught with a submarine, putting them into a small pressure chamber to decompress is not feasible.

Instead, the fish are slowly brought up to a shallow enough depth by the submersible where divers can then decompress them.  This means that every day for about a week, the fish are brought closer and closer to the surface where they are “pinned” to relieve the gas buildup in their expanded swim bladders.   As they reach a shallower depth, the rate of ascent must be even slower until the atmospheric pressure is at sea level.  The last 100 feet is where is where severe damage to the fish usually occurs.   For this reason Golden Basslets and other extremely deep water species are often plagued with decompression and bacterial problems caused by improper “pinning”.

Assuming that your retailer has a healthy Golden Basslet that has successfully survived collection, be prepared to part with anywhere from  $7,500.00 – $9,000.00.

Golden Basslet (Liopropoma abberans)

Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy once acclimated
Water Conditions: 68 °F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.2, sg 1.023-1.025
Max size: 5.31″
Color Form: Orange, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: Reef with Caution
Origin: Western Central Atlantic, Cuba.
Family: Serranidae
Lifespan: 6 +years
Aquarist Experience Level: Expert

Candy Basslet (Liopropoma carmabi)

The Candy Basslet (Liopropoma carmabi) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Candy Cane Basslet is found in the western Atlantic and ranges from the Bahamas and Florida Keys in the U.S.A., along the eastern Caribbean all the way down to some of the smaller islands (Curacao, Bonaire, and Ascension) off the northern coast of South America.

The Candy Basslet  is a solitary species that lives in the caves, crevices, and overhangs found on the outer walls of the deeper coral reefs or their range at depths from 50 to over 230 feet where they feed on small fish, small invertebrates, and crustaceans. Most of the specimens collected for tropical fish keeping enthusiasts are found around the 80 depths.

Candy Basslets are very territorial and seldom stray far from their home rock, cave, or ledge; only venturing out to defend their territory or to search for food.

Candy Basslet (Liopropoma carmabi)

The Candy Basslet has a torpedo shaped body with a pointed head with a relatively large mouth. Although individuals vary in color and intensity, they generally have an orange body color with five intensely bright lavender and red alternating horizontal lines running from the anterior through the pectoral, ventral, and caudal fins.  They have a large black spot outlined in deep lavender blue on the upper rear of the dorsal fin, and two black spots on the upper and lower caudal fin joined by a black bar outlined in deep lavender blue.

The Candy Basslet (Liopropoma carmabi) is similar in size and coloration to the Swissguard Basslet (Liopropoma rubre) and Swales Basslet (Liopropoma swalisi) but is easily differentiated by its more intensely colored body.

The Candy Basslet is best housed in a mature FOWLR or reef aquarium of at least 20 gallon capacity, with a fine crushed coral or sandy substrate and plenty of aged live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs.   The Candy Basslet is reef safe and compatible with most fish and invertebrates that are too large to be consumed.   They will eat any shrimp or crab that is small enough to fit into their mouth. Because it is found in the deeper waters of the Caribbean, it needs subdued lighting or several areas in the tank with lower light levels where it can shelter from bright lighting.

The Candy Basslet is friendly and peaceful with tank mates close to it’s size, but it can be highly aggressive with their own species. That said, only one pair or one individual per tank is recommended unless you budget accommodates purchasing a 135 gallon or larger reef aquarium.   Although they mix well other small reef basslets like the Ridgeback Basslet, Grammas, Anthias, Tangs, and most small Angelfish; keeping the Candy Basslet with any Pseudochromids or wrasses, especially in a smaller reef aquarium is highly discouraged.

Because of their small size and reclusive personalities, this is one species that is best viewed in smaller nano type system.   They will literally lose themselves in a large 125 gallon aquarium.

Although mated Candy Basslets have spawned in an aquarium environment, their larvae have not been successfully raised to adulthood.   There is some evidence that they are protogynous hermaphrodites.

In their natural deep water environment, Candy Basslets feed mainly on crustaceans and tiny fish.   In an aquarium environment, they will accept a variety of fresh or frozen meaty seafoods such as Mysis shrimp, shredded Krill, silver sides, vitamin enriched brine shrimp, squid, and clam.   Over time they will accept carnivore and Spirulina based flakes and pellets but a fresh carnivore diet is recommended.

Arguably the most beautiful and brightly colored of all the coral reef fish, the Candy Basslet (Liopropoma carmabi) is rarely available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts.   Online specialty fish shops, wholesalers, and collectors will occasionally offer them for sale on a waiting list basis. Prices vary from $799.98 – $1099.00 and up for a single specimen; to $1,699.99 for a “mated” pair collected in Curacao.

Candy Basslet (Liopropoma carmabi)

Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 68-74 °F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.2, sg 1.023-1.025
Max size: Males 2.5″, Females 1.75″
Color Form: Orange, Lavender, Red, Black, Blue
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: Excellent Reef
Origin: Western Atlantic
Family: Serranidae
Lifespan: 4 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Advanced

Purple Tang (Zebrasoma xanthurum).mp4

The Purple Tang (Zebrasoma xanthurum) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Yellowtail Tang, Yellowtail Surgeonfish, or Blue Surgeonfish is native to the Red Sea however, they have also been encountered in the Gulf of Aden, the Persian Gulf, the Arabian Sea, and recently in the Mediterranean Sea near Sardinia. They have been recorded from Maldives.

Although the Purple Tang is most abundant in the coral reefs of the Red Sea, smaller numbers are found in the Arabian Sea, the western Indian Ocean, the Gulf of Aden, and the Persian Gulf.

Adult Purple Tangs are usually encountered swimming in large groups over rocky bottoms and the coral rich reefs of their range where they spend the majority of their time grazing voraciously on filamentous algae at depths from 6 to well over 65 feet.   Juvenile Purple Tangs are more solitary and prefer the shallower waters over coral rich reefs. As they mature they form schools and become more easy going.

During daylight hours, Purple Tangs are extremely active as they forage on algae among the substrate. At night they shelter between the rocks to protect themselves from larger predatory reef species.

Purple Tangs have numerous small pharyngeal teeth that are used to scrape filamentous algae from the rocks and substrate. It is an excellent rock cleaner and will quickly eliminate any nuisance algae found in your aquarium.

Purple Tang (Zebrasoma xanthurum)

Zebrasoma xanthurum have moderately elevated dorsal and anal fins , a deep body, and a protruding snout mottled with dark spots that continue to the abdomen, anterior body, and forehead.  Although some Purple Tangs have a deep rich blue or indigo shaded body color, most are colored a vivid purple with a bright yellow, slightly rounded tail, and yellow tipped pectoral fins.

Tiny black dots, which in most cases are barely perceptible through the deep purple body color, form somewhat scribbly thin horizontal bands towards the posterior of the body.

Juveniles have a dark blue body color with grey striping and a yellow caudal fin.  The blue color darkens into a deep purple or less frequently into a deep dark blue as they mature.  Males are slightly larger than females.

The Purple Tang is best housed in a mature FOWLR or reef tank of at least 125 gallon capacity with a fine crushed coral or sandy substrate, substantial quantities of mature algae encrusted live rock arranged into crevices, caves, and overhangs for them to graze and hide among, plenty of free swimming space, and a good amount of water movement.  They are completely reef safe and will not harm corals, decorative clams, or sessile invertebrates.

Purple Tangs can be very aggressive and do not do well with tank mates of similar body shape; especially other Tangs of the genus Zebrasoma.   Although their hyperactive swimming nature can intimidate most shy, docile, and passive species; they can be kept with many reef species. Some good tankmates include Blood Red Fire Shrimp, Skunk Cleaner Shrimp, Blue-Green Chromis, Lyretail Anthias, Majestic Angelfish, Coral Beauty Angelfish, Foxface Rabbitfish, Tomato Clownfish, Wrasses, and Neon Gobies.

Zebrasoma xanthurum are virtually impossible to breed in an aquarium environment. They are difficult to sex and the cost of establishing a breeding pair would be prohibitive.  They are broadcast spawners that would require a huge commercial tank for them to mate and produce offspring.  In the Red Sea mainly during the late winter to early spring, males and females swim up into the water column to the surface where the females releases their eggs and the males immediately fertilizes them.   The planktonic eggs drift with the current along the surface until they hatch.   The finless fry live off the yolk sack until it is completely absorbed, at which point the fry drift to the bottom of the reef feeding on microalgae until they grow into juveniles

The Purple Tang is an omnivore that in the wild grazes heavily on plant based foods, primarily filamentous algae which they are constantly devouring. In an mature aquarium environment with plenty of algae encrusted live rock, they need a constant supply of marine based algae and seaweed in their diet to strengthen their immune system, reduce aggression, and remain healthy.   Dried seaweed (Nori) tied to a rock or in a veggie clip should be offered 3 or more times per week.   Sea Veggies, Seaweed Salad and Ocean Nutrition are also easy to use seaweed supplements.

The Purple Tang (Zebrasoma xanthurum) is commonly available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from specialty fish shops, online wholesalers, retailers, and trans shippers at the following approximate purchase sizes: Small: 1-1/2″ to 2″; Small/Medium: 2″ to 2-3/4″; Medium: 2-3/4″ to 3-1/2″; Medium/Large: 3-1/2″ – 4″ Large: 4″ to 5″. Prices vary depending on size but start around $219.99 for small specimens to over $499.00.

Purple Tang (Zebrasoma xanthurum)

Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 74-82° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 10″
Color Form: Purple, Blue, Yellow
Diet: Herbivore
Compatibility: Reef
Origin: Red Sea
Family: Acanthuridae
Lifespan: 10+ years, 30 – 45 years in the wild
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Naso Tang (Naso Lituratus)

The Naso Tang (Naso Lituratus) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as Barcheek Unicorn, Clown Surgeonfish, Literate Surgeonfish, Lipstick Tang, Orangespine Unicornfish, and Barcheek Unicornfish is found in the East Indian and Pacific Ocean. Their extensive range in the central and western parts of the Pacific Ocean includes Hawaii, Japan, Tuamotu, and the Marquesas.

The Naso Tang is usually encountered swimming in pairs or in large groups, grazing on sargassum and dictyota above the corals and live rock found among the flats and outer slopes of the coral reefs, at depths from 15 to well over 300 feet.

Naso Tang (Naso Lituratus)

Juvenile Naso Tangs have a dark gray body color, a blue stripe following along the dorsal fin, and an orange stripe in the anal fin.

As they mature a thin, black face mask outlined with bright yellow forms between the eyes and mouth, the lips develop a reddish orange (lipstick) color, the body morphs into a brownish gray color with a yellow nape and a broad black band on the dorsal fin, the tail acquires a lyre shape with a vertical yellow bar towards the posterior, and two bright orange patches develop at the two forward hooked spines on the caudal peduncle.

Males are slightly larger than females and develop trailing caudal streamers that the females lack. For reasons unknown, Naso Tangs collected from Hawaiian waters are more brightly colored.

Although the Naso Tang (Naso Lituratus) is sometimes misidentified as the Blonde Naso Tang (Naso elegans) found in the Indian Ocean; Naso elegans have predominantly yellow colored dorsal fins with some shades of black, compared to the dorsal fins of Naso Tangs which are predominantly black and gray.

Because adult Naso Tangs grow to almost 18″ in an aquarium environment, they are best housed in a mature FOWLR or reef tank of at least 180 gallon capacity with a crushed coral or coraline sand substrate, plenty of live rock arranged into large caves and overhangs, and plenty of free swimming space. They need high oxygen levels, strong currents in the tank, and pristine water conditions to thrive.  An appropriately sized reef filtration system with a good protein skimmer and multiple power heads is recommended along with the normal water changes required in reef systems.

The Naso Tang is reef safe and will generally ignore corals and invertebrates in the tank. They are a shy, active, and somewhat nervous species that are peaceful with other fish in the tank but are aggressive towards most other tangs.  Some good tankmates include clownfish, eels, gobies, yellow tang, sailfin tang, and angelfish.   In larger aquariums of 200 gallon and over capacity, other tangs like the Purple Tang can be safely housed with Naso Tangs.

In a reef tank, Naso Tangs benefit greatly from cleaner wrasses, cleaner shrimp, or neon gobies that remove any parasites from their skin.  They also lack a mucus barrier on their bodies which makes them susceptible to marine ich and velvet.  Cryptocaryon is very common among tangs but is easily cured with copper drugs in a quarantine tank.

Because of their large size, Naso Tangs have not been bred in a home aquarium environment.  It is possible, but a huge tank would be required. In their natural habitat Naso Lituratus display the egg scattering spawning activity typical of the family Acanthuridae.   They are pair spawners.   After a brief courtship ritual, the male and female swim up into the water column to the surface where the female releases her eggs and the male immediately fertilizes them.  The planktonic eggs drift with the current along the surface until they hatch.  The finless fry live off the yolk sack until completely absorbed, at which point they drift to the bottom of the reef feeding on microalgae until they grow into juveniles. Spawning occurs year round in Guam.

Adult Naso Tangs thrive on a diet of wild algae, with a definite preference for brown macroalgae. In the wild, they normally eat sargassum and dictyota. In an aquarium environment, they should be copious amounts of dried seaweed or dried algae.  A lettuce clip placed under some live rock in the tank is a good way to introduce the seaweed. The key to keeping the Naso Tang healthy in the long term is to obtain some brown macroalgae to feed them, which is by far the most natural thing for them to eat.

Unique to members of Acanthuridae, including the Naso Tang, is the epulopiscium bacteria in their gut which influences their digestion.   Candidatus Epulonipiscium is a genus of Gram positive bacteria that have a symbiotic relationship with surgeonfish and helps them process this algae in their diet.

In a pinch, Naso Tangs will eat Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other meaty foods when they see other fish eating, but these foods should not become a staple.   Herbivore preparations like Sea Veggies, Seaweed Salad, and Ocean Nutrition are all good products that are very easy to use as a substitute.

The Naso Tang (Naso Lituratus) is commonly available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from specialty fish shops, online wholesalers, retailers, and trans shippers at the following approximate purchase sizes from several areas in the Indo Pacific: Small: 1″ to 2″; Small/Medium: 2″ to 3″; Medium: 3″ to 4″; Medium/Large: 4″ to 6″; Large: 6″ to 8″; Extra Large: 8″ to 9″. Prices vary depending on locale and size but start at around $179.00 for medium adults.

Naso Tang (Naso Lituratus)

Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 75-79° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 18″
Color Form: Black, Blue, Orange, Red, Yellow
Diet: Herbivore
Compatibility: Reef
Origin: East Indian and Pacific Ocean
Family: Acanthuridae
Lifespan: 8+ years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

False Gramma (Pictichromis paccagnellae)

The False Gramma (Pictichromis paccagnellae) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Gramma Dotty, Bicolor Dottyback, or Royal Dottyback is found in the Western Pacific Ocean from Indonesia (Java and Sulawesi) to Vanuatu; Palau in Micronesia.

The False Gramma is a semi aggressive, solitary species that is found singly or in small loosely scattered groups around coral and rubble rock in the shallow coastal waters and the deeper outer reef dropoffs of their range at depths to well over 60 feet.

Despite its small size, the False Gramma (Pictichromis paccagnellae) is much more territorial and aggressive than the more peaceful Royal Gramma Basslet (Gramma loreto) which it is sometimes mistaken for.

False Gramma (Pictichromis paccagnellae)

The False Gramma is colored a bright purple over the front portion of the body that is abruptly separated at mid point by a straight line into a bright yellow behind.

Unlike the Royal Gramma Basslet, Pictichromis paccagnellae lacks the black spot on the front of the dorsal, the dark line through the eye, and has clear fins. Females have a noticeably more slender elongated body than males.

Despite their combative nature, their small adult size (2.5 to 3 in) makes the False Gramma is a great beginner fish and is well suited for small nano reef systems.

The False Gramma is best housed in a FOWLR or reef aquarium of at least 30 gallon capacity with a crushed coral or sandy substrate, and plenty of mature live rock arranged into extensive rockwork caves, overhangs, and crevices for them to stake out territories and hide among. Although they are relatively peaceful towards tankmates of similar size and temperament, they are extremely protective of their territories and are super aggressive to interlopers.   The False Gramma is not intimidated by other fish and will defend its territory against fish two to three times its size

Although the False Gramma is considered reef safe and totally ignores corals and most sessile invertebrates, it will attack and eat ornamental shrimp and is a predator of nuisance bristleworms.   They are belligerent enough to be housed with larger fish such as Tangs and larger Clownfish, but smaller, more docile reef species are liable to be attacked and bullied by this fish.

Unless Bicolor Dottybacks are being kept in formed pairs or in a very large tank with plenty of live rock, it is better to house them singly, however, small groups can be kept in a large enough tank with enough cracks and crevices for each fish to have its own territory.   Although this dottyback will defend its territory against fish several times its size, they should never be kept with aggressive fish large enough to eat them.

Not much is known about the reproductive habits of Pictichromis paccagnellae.

In their natural habitat, False Gramma feed on zooplankton, ectoparasites, small crustaceans, and small pieces of fish flesh.   In an aquarium environment, they should be feed a varied diet of fresh or frozen meaty fare, including brine shrimp, Mysis shrimp, and quality frozen omnivore preparations.   Over time they can be trained to eat flake and pellet foods.

The False Gramma (Pictichromis paccagnellae) is a good beginner species that is normally available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from specialty fish shops, and online from wholesalers and retailers at an approximate purchase size of 1″ to 2-1/2″ and a cost of $21.99 to $30.00.

False Gramma (Pictichromis paccagnellae)

Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 72–78 °F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.5, sg 1.020-1.025
Max size: 2.8″
Color Form: Purple, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: Reef with Caution
Origin: Indo-Pacific
Family: Pseudochromidae
Lifespan: 5+ years
Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner

Royal Gramma Basslet (Gramma loreto)

The Royal Gramma Basslet (Gramma loreto) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Fairy Basslet, is native to the deep water reefs in the Caribbean and tropical western Atlantic Ocean and ranges from the Antilles, Bahamas, Bermuda, Venezuela, into the surrounding waters of Central America and northern part of South America.

The Royal Gramma Basslet is usually found alone and occasionally in small groups among the caves, crevices, and overhangs near the bottom at depths from 2 to over 60 feet where they feed on zooplankton, crustaceans, and ectoparasites. They prefer picking their food from the middle of the water column and often set up “cleaning stations” where they remove parasites and dead food from the skin of other fish.

Royal Gramma Basslet (Gramma loreto)

The Royal Gramma Basslet has a bright purple to deep violet body color at the anterior that fades at mid body into a bright golden yellow at the posterior. The pectoral fins and front portion of the dorsal are a light purple to deep violet color and the ventral, caudal, and rear portion of the dorsal fin is bright golden yellow. They have a small black spot on the front of the dorsal fin and a black line that intersects the relatively large eye. Males are generally larger than females.

The Royal Gramma Basslet (Gramma loreto) closely resembles the False Gramma (Pictichromis

False Gramma (Pictichromis paccagnellae)

paccagnellae) except that the False Gramma has clear fins that do not fade and a distinctly sharp change in color at mid body.

Because of their small adult size (3.1 in) and relatively peaceful nature; Gramma loreto is a great beginner fish that is well suited for small nano reef systems.

The Royal Gramma Basslet is best housed in a FOWLR or reef system aquarium of at least 30 gallon capacity with a crushed coral or sandy substrate, plenty of mature live rock arranged into extensive rockwork caves, overhangs, and crevices for them to stake out territories and hide among, and rather subdued lighting.   Although they are generally peaceful towards tankmates of similar size and temperament, they are extremely protective of their territories and can become aggressive to their own kind.  When threatened by any size fish, they will open their mouths wide in a threatening gesture to ward off the intruders.

Unless Royal Gramma Basslets are being kept in a very large tank with plenty of live rock or in a formed pair, it is best to house them singly, however, small groups can be kept as long as the tank is large enough and has enough cracks and crevices for each fish to have its own territory.   Needles to say, they should never be kept with larger, more aggressive fish that will eat them.

The Royal Gramma Basslet will often orient itself to be parallel with the surface that it is closest to. This results in the fish swimming straight up or down and often upside down beneath a ledge or in a cave. Many tropical fish keeping enthusiasts unfamiliar with the species mistakenly identify this behavior for illness.

Although Royal Gramma Basslets are very easy to breed and males are usually larger than females, determining a mated pair can be somewhat difficult.   When ready to spawn, the male will use pieces of algae to build a “nest” among the rocks and lead the female to the nest where she will deposit anywhere from 20 to over 100 small (.04 in) eggs.  The eggs have protuberances and tiny threads extending from them that hold onto the algae in the nest and keep them in place.   The male performs frequent cleanings  and debris removal of the nest and ferociously protects the eggs during the breeding period until the eggs hatch out; usually during the evening hours in five to seven days.   The larvae feed on rotifers until they are large enough to consume newly hatched brine shrimp.

In their natural habitat, the Royal Gramma Basslet feeds on zooplankton, ectoparasites, small crustaceans, and small pieces of fish flesh.   In an aquarium environment, they should be feed a varied diet of fresh or frozen meaty fare, including brine shrimp, Mysis shrimp, and quality frozen omnivore preparations. Over time they can be trained to eat flake and pellet foods.

The Royal Gramma Basslet (Gramma loreto) is an ideal beginner species that is readily available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from specialty fish shops, and online from wholesalers and retailers at the following approximate purchase sizes:  Small: 3/4″ to 1-1/4″; Medium: 1-1/4″ to 1-3/4″; Large: 1-3/4″ to 2-1/2″ at prices from $15.99 to $39.99 or more.

Royal Gramma Basslet (Gramma loreto)

Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 72–78 °F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max size: 3″
Color Form: Purple, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: Reef OK
Origin: Western Central Atlantic
Family: Grammidae
Lifespan: 5 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner

White Tail Bristletooth Tang (Ctenochaetus flavicauda)

The White Tail Bristletooth Tang (Ctenochaetus flavicauda) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the White Tail Yellow Eye Tang or White Tail Yellow Eye Kole Tang is found in the U.S. Minor Islands in the Western Pacific; to the Austral, Line, Rapa, and Society Islands in the East Central Pacific Ocean.

White Tail Bristletooth Tangs are found singly and in small groups of 6 to 12 individuals among areas of dense coral growth on the shallow coral reefs, sheltered coastal lagoons, and coral slope dropoffs at depths from 3 to over 90 feet where they graze on algae, seaweed, and zooplankton.

White Tail Bristletooth Tangs spend the majority of their day grazing among the rocks and coral mantels in the densely populated coral reefs and flats of their range where food is most abundant and protection is available to them from other larger predatory reef species.

Ctenochaetus Tangs have a protruding mouth with bristle like teeth that they can move individually to sift, sort, and scrape rocks and substrate in search of food.  The White Tail Bristletooth Tang is the smallest acanthurid and the smallest ctenochaetus tang, growing to only about 5 inches in length. It is an excellent rock cleaner and will take care of many different types of nuisance algae found in your aquarium.

White Tail Bristletooth Tang (Ctenochaetus flavicauda)

At first glance the White Tail Bristletooth Tang looks like a Kole Tang (Ctenochaetus strigosus) however, the Kole tang is a native of Hawaii while the Whitetail tang frequents the west Pacific.

Adult White Tail Bristletooth Tangs have a beautifully deep reddish brown body with orange spots on its head that stream into the fine, orange colored horizontal body striping along the body, a sharply contrasting distinctive bright show white tail, and small bright yellow circles around the eyes.

Juvenile Ctenochaetus flavicauda and Ctenochaetus strigosus are a bright yellow color, but only

White Tail Bristletooth Tang (Ctenochaetus flavicauda)

Ctenochaetus flavicauda take on the reddish maroon body color and vivid white tail as they mature into adulthood.

The White Tail Bristletooth Tang is best housed in a mature FOWLR or reef tank of at least 75 gallon capacity with a crushed coral or sandy substrate, substantial quantities of mature coral encrusted live rock arranged into crevices, caves, and overhangs for them to graze and hide among, plenty of free swimming space, and a good amount of water movement.

Although the White Tail Bristletooth Tang is normally peaceful towards most tank mates and will not bother sessile invertebrates or corals, they can become seriously aggressive towards other Tangs; especially those in the Ctenochaetus family or fish they perceive as competition for food.

Tropical fish keeping enthusiasts intending to keep this species with other tangs should house them in an aquarium of at least 125 gallon capacity with plenty of swimming area and mature live rock, and stock it with at least 6 or more tangs to spread out aggression between species.   To farther reduce aggression between the tangs, try to introduce all of them into the tank at the same time and provide plenty of algae for them to graze on.

The White Tail Bristletooth Tang has not been bred in an aquarium environment.   Like other members of the surgeonfish family, they are egg scatters that broadcast their spawn in groups.   Sexing is difficult but if you plan to keep a breeding harem of White Tail Bristletooth Tangs, you will need at least 6 to 10 individuals at a minimum in an appropriately sized aquarium to develop a pair.

The White Tail Bristletooth Tang needs a steady diet of marine based algae and seaweed to maintain their immune systems and remain healthy.

In an aquarium environment they are excellent rock cleaners and will consume several different types of nuisance algae that may be in your tank.   They should also be offered a varied diet of meaty foods, flakes, and frozen foods.  The majority of their diet in an aquarium with sufficient amounts of mature live rock should consist of algae, nori, and herbivore preparations. Dried seaweed (nori), romaine lettuce, and other leafy lettuces on a veggie clip should be presented 2 or 3 times a week or more. They will also accept high quality flake and pellet foods, as well as Mysis and brine shrimp.   Sea Veggies, Seaweed Salad, and Seaweed Selects are all ideal products that are easy to use.

The White Tail Bristletooth Tang (Ctenochaetus flavicauda) is an uncommon and somewhat rare species that is not often available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts.   They are a great fish for controlling algae in the saltwater fish or reef aquarium and occasionally available online from specialty fish shops, online wholesalers, retailers, and trans shippers at the following approximate purchase sizes: Small: 1.5″ to 2-1/2″; Medium: 2-1/2″ to 4″; Medium/Large: 4″ to 5″ Large: 5″ to 6″. Prices start at $245.00 for small medium.

White Tail Bristletooth Tang (Ctenochaetus flavicauda)

Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.027
Maximum Size: 4.6″
Color Form: Black, Orange, Red, White
Diet: Herbivore
Compatibility: Reef
Origin: South Pacific, Coral Sea, Fiji, Indo-Pacific, Tahiti
Family: Acanthuridae
Lifespan: 5 to 7 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma veliferum)

The Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma veliferum) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Pacific Sailfin Tang, Sail Fish Tang, Pacific Sailfin Surgeonfish, Purple Sailfinned Tang, Sailfin Surgeon, or Purple Lined Tang can be found in the East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Japan, the Red Sea, Indonesia, and the Central West Pacific oceans from Indonesia to the Hawaiian, Pitcairn, and Tuamoto islands, north to southern Japan and the Ogasawara Islands, south to the southern Great Barrier Reef, New Caledonia, and the Rapa Island area ine western and eastern Australia.

The Pacific Sailfin Tang is a Benthopelagic species that is normally encountered alone or in pairs on the seaward tropical reefs and lagoons of their range at depths from the lower surge zone to well over 98 feet where they feed on leafy macroalgae, benthos, and zooplankton. Juveniles are more solitary and prefer living among the rocks and coral of the more protected, sometimes turbid, shallower inner reefs.

Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma veliferum)

The adult Sailfin Tang, a.k.a. Pacific Sailfin Tang, has an oval shaped body with large, very high, dorsal and anal fins. It is a brownish colored tang with several broad grayish brown bars that alternate with five vertical yellow stripes that have in

Juvenile Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma veliferum)

tricate markings within each stripe.  It has a grayish to brown dorsal and anal fins with pale bands and a grayish brown caudal fin.  Some individuals may have a blue to purple brush like patch at the base of a yellow caudal fin.  The pale grayish snout is covered with light freckles.   Compared to other Zebrasoma spp., they have fewer but larger pharyngeal teeth.

Both of the juvenile forms of Zebrasoma veliferum and Zebrasoma desjardinii have alternating yellow and black bars with no brush like patch of setae on the rear portion of the body.   Juveniles may or may not have spots on their fins or body; but as they grow into adulthood, the distinctive spots and bold striping on the fins and body of the Red Sea Sailfin Tang will develop to distinguish the two species.

Sailfin Tangs are best housed in a FOWLR or reef aquarium of at least 180 gallon capacity with a sand or crushed coral substrate, copious amounts of mature live rock for them to graze on and hide among, and plenty of free swimming space. Zebrasoma veliferum are aggressive towards its own species and at times, conspecifics, but peaceful towards other fish of the same or larger size.

Pacific Sailfin Tangs are completely reef safe and make a great addition to large reef systems.

Zebrasoma veliferum are pair spawners that have not yet been successfully bred in an aquarium environment.   Courtship and spawning takes place from morning to afternoon and is frequently confined to ebb tides.   This differs from the open water group egg scattering spawning activity typical of the family Acanthuridae.

In their natural habitat on the tropical reefs, Sailfin Tangs spend their entire day in search of marine algae and any meaty bits of food they can find. In an aquarium environment they will pick on algae on mature live rock but it is important that they are fed plenty of marine based seaweed and algae to strengthen their immune systems, reduce aggression, and improve their overall health.

Nori, Spirulina Flakes, frozen Mysis shrimp, and flake foods soaked in some type of vitamin supplement (Selcon or garlic) to ward off parasites is highly recommended. Some meaty foods should occasionally be introduced to balance their diet. Sea Veggies, Seaweed Salad, and Ocean Nutrition are all ideal products that are very easy to use.

The Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma veliferum) is commonly available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from specialty fish shops, online wholesalers, retailers, and trans shippers at the following approximate purchase sizes from the Indo Pacific: Small: over 2-2.5″ $69.99; Medium: over 2.5-4.5″ $79.99; Large: over 4.5-6.5″, $99.99; X-Large: over 6.5-7.5″, $149.99; XX-Large: over 7.5-8.5″, $199.99; and from Fiji: Small: over 2-2.5″, $59.99; Medium: over 2.5-4.5″, $79.99; Large: over 4.5-6.5″; $89.99.

Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma veliferum)

Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 16″
Color Form: Black, White, Yellow, Blue, Orange
Diet: Herbivore
Compatibility: Reef
Origin: Coral Sea, Fiji, Indo-Pacific, Tahiti
Family: Acanthuridae
Lifespan: 5 to 7 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma veliferum)

The Red Sea Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma desjardinii) known by tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as Indian Ocean Sailfin Tang, Desjardin’s Sailfin Tang, and Desjardini Sailfin Tang is widespread throughout the Indian Ocean from the northern Red Sea to KwaZulu-Natal Province in South Africa, and east to India and Java.

Adult Red Sea Sailfin Tangs are normally encountered in pairs on the tropical reefs and lagoons of their range at depths from 6 to over 100 feet feeding on filamentous algae, a variety of macroalgae, plankton, and in the Red Sea; Scyphozoa and Ctenophora jellyfish. Juveniles are more solitary and prefer living in the shallower inner reefs.

The colors in Red Sea Sailfin Tangs frequently vary from individual to individual, depending on age.

Red Sea Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma desjardinii)

In general Red Sea Sailfin Tangs have an oval shaped body with large, very high, dorsal and anal fins. The uper portion of the body is covered with alternating orange and dark blue vertical bands and a larger blue band on the eyes. The head and ventral area is covered with numerous white spots, the belly is covered with orange spots, and the dorsal and anal fins have a pattern of alternating horizontal orange and blue bands. The caudal fin is covered with white spots and darker lines. In the middle of the caudal peduncle on each side of the caudal fin, they have a dark spine surrounded by a dark blue area that is used for defense. Males are typically larger than females.

Another color variation has a dark to very light gray body color with light freckles on the nose and yellow spots on the

Red Sea Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma desjardinii)

abdomen. The body and dorsal fin has several, varying sized vertical yellow and black stripes with intricate markings between the stripes at the face, the anal fin has numerous yellow spots, and the caudal fin is blue with white freckles.

Although adult Red Sea Sailfin Tangs (Zebrasoma desjardinii) and Sailfin Tangs (Zebrasoma veliferum) have easily recognizable color patterns; juveniles are almost indistinguishable in color and markings.

The juvenile forms of Zebrasoma desjardinii and Zebrasoma veliferum may not have spots on their fins or body, however as they grow into adulthood, the distinctive spots and bold striping on the fins and body will develop.

Red Sea Sailfin Tangs are best housed in a FOWLR or reef aquarium of at least 180 gallon capacity with a sand or crushed coral substrate, a copious amount of mature live rock for them to graze on and hide among, and plenty of free swimming space. Zebrasoma desjardinii are aggressive towards its own species and at times, conspecifics, but peaceful towards other fish of the same or larger size. Red Sea Sailfin Tangs are completely reef safe and make a great addition to large reef systems.

If its not possible to keep your Desjardini Sailfin Tang isolated from other tang species in a large tank, make sure to introduce all the tangs at the same time to minimize aggression. On the reef, Red Sea Sailfin Tangs are very territorial and are mostly encountered in pairs and as lone specimens .

Zebrasoma desjardinii are pair spawners that have not yet been successfully bred in an aquarium environment. This differs from the open water group egg scattering spawning activity typical of the family Acanthuridae. Because these fish do not get along with their own species, it’s difficult to keep them in the same tank long enough for them to breed.

In their natural habitat on the tropical reefs, Red Sea Sailfin Tangs are usually found grazing primarily on filamentous algae, several varieties of macroalgae, plankton, and in the Red Sea; Scyphozoa and Ctenophora jellyfish. In an aquarium environment they will pick on algae on mature live rock but it is important that they are fed plenty of marine based seaweed and algae to strengthen their immune systems, reduce aggression, and improve their overall health along with some meaty foods.

Dried Nori seaweed tied to a rock or on a veggie clip, Sea Veggies, Seaweed Salad, and Ocean Nutrition Seaweed Select are all ideal, easy to use products. Occasional feedings of brine shrimp, Mysis shrimp, and finely chopped pieces of fresh shrimp, scallops, mussels, clam, etc. should also be offered to round out their diet.

Red Sea Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma desjardinii) are available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from specialty fish shops, online wholesalers, retailers, and trans shippers at the following approximate purchase sizes: Tiny: 3/4″ to 1-1/2″; Small: 1-1/2″ to 2-1/2″; Small/Medium: 2-1/2″ to 3″; Medium: 3″ to 4″; Medium/Large: 4″ to 5″ Large: 5″ to 6″ XLarge: 6″ to 7″. Prices vary from under $129.99 for tiny specimens to $279.99 or more for XLarge to adults.

Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Difficult
Temperament: Semi Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 16″
Color Form: Black, White, Yellow, Blue, Orange
Diet: Herbivore
Compatibility: Reef
Origin: Indian Ocean
Family: Acanthuridae
Lifespan: 5 to 7 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Chalk Basslet (Serranus tortugarum)

The Chalk Basslet (Serranus tortugarum) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Chalk Bass is found in the Western Atlantic and is widespread in Caribbean reef areas including the Bahamas, Virgin Islands, the Antilles, and Honduras.

The Chalk Basslet is a cautious, peaceful species that can be encountered alone, in pairs, and most often in small groups over a patch of coral, or an old conch shell, at recorded depths from 39 to over 1300 feet.   They are most often seen over rock rubble on silty or sandy substrates, at depths from 60 to 300 feet, feeding on zooplankton and small invertebrates and are difficult to approach.

Chalk Basslets are a social species that prefer living together in small groups where they create a heiarchery with a dominant member choosing where to swim next.

Chalk Basslet (Serranus tortugarum)

The Chalk Basslet has an orange body color with a purple mid section, and vibrant electric blue vertical bands that accent the fish. Because they are a favorite prey for many predators on the reef, they utilize camouflage to protect themselves and can change colors at will.

Depending on the surrounding environment; you may find individuals with an orange body with vibrant blue stripes, a blue body with burgundy stripes, or an individual with a slash of purple down the middle of the body.

The Chalk Basslet is a hardy species that are best housed in small groups of at least 3 to 6 individuals in a FOWLR or reef aquarium of at least a 30 gallon capacity with a silty sand or finely crushed coral substrate and plenty of mature live rock for them to hide among. The larger the shoal, the better the behavior.

The Chalk Basslet is a great fish for reef tanks and are completely reef safe.  Being omnivores, they will graze around your SPS and LPS corals in their search for a meal, but they will not damage the polyps or bother sessile invertebrates.   Larger specimens have been known to attack small shrimps, especially those within the Periclimenes genus.

Housing a single basslet in a reef or community tank will result in shy, nervous, reclusive behavior.

When small groups of Serranus tortugarum are added to the aquarium at the same time, they will get along with each other as well as with other passive tankmates.   Adding an additional Chalk Basslet to an existing group could result in the newcomer being harrased to the point of starvation.

In an aquarium environment, Chalk Basslets are perfectly friendly and peaceful with tank mates of their own size, but territorial with their own species.

Because Chalk Basslets are found in the deeper waters of the Caribbean, they need caves, overhangs, an other areas in the tank with lower light levels to hide from any bright overhead lighting.   They also require a quality filtration system with a protein skimmer and possibly a chiller system to maintain water quality and temperature.

Chalk Basslets are synchronously hermaphrodic and pelagic spawners that have not been successfully bred in an aquarium environment.

In their natural environment, the Chalk Basslet feeds on plankton, crustaceans, and small invertebrates.    In an aquarium environment they do best on a varied diet of chopped meaty items such as live, frozen, or freeze dried, and vitamin enriched brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, krill, or silver sides.  They will also readily accept carnivore and omnivore pellets. Feeding 1 to 2 times per day only what will be consumed within a few minutes is recommended. Overfeeding is often a problem with this species. They simply do not know when to quit eating.

The Chalk Basslet (Serranus tortugarum) is popular with tropical fish keeping enthusiasts and is usually available from specialty fish shops, and online from wholesalers and retailers at purchase sizes from: Small 1″ to 2″; Medium 2″ to 3″; at prices in the $29.99 to $39.99 range.

Chalk Basslet (Serranus tortugarum)

Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 72–76 °F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max size: 4″
Color Form: Blue, Orange, Purple
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: Reef with Caution
Origin: Western Central Atlantic
Family: Serranidae
Lifespan: 1 to 2 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Gem Tang (Zebrasoma gemmatum

Gem Tang (Zebrasoma gemmatum) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Spotted Tang or Mauritian Tang is found in the Western Indian Ocean and ranges from the coast of Mozambique, South Africa and Madagascar to the Islands of Mauritius and Réunion.

The Gem Tang is a rare, solitary, and highly prized species that inhabits the coral and rocky reefs of the range at depths from 35 to over 200 feet where they can be found grazing on algae.   Juveniles prefer relatively shallower depths, whereas adults are normally found in deeper waters and surge zones.

Gem Tang (Zebrasoma gemmatum

The Gem Tang has a stunning black body covered with a galaxy of vibrant white spots, a bright yellow caudal fin, and yellow accents on the pectoral fins. There are no external characteristics that can determine males from females.
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The Spotted Tang is best housed in a mature FOWLR or reef aquarium of at least 180 gallon capacity with a crushed coral or sandy substrate, plenty of live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs, and plenty of free swimming area.   Gem Tangs are completely reef safe and do well in large reef tanks. Although they are very territorial and will fight with other tangs, particularly other Zebrasoma tangs; Zebrasoma gemmatum will normally ignore other similar sized fish species.

If its not possible to keep your Gem Tang isolated from other tang species in a large tank, make sure to introduce all the tangs at the same time to minimize aggression. On the reef, Gem Tangs are very territorial and are mostly encountered as lone specimens.

Zebrasoma gemmatum are open water egg scatterers that have not yet been bred in an aquarium environment.

In their natural habitat on the rocky reefs, Gem Tangs spend their time grazing primarily on algae.  In an aquarium environment, they will pick at algae on mature live rock but still require a steady diet of brown, purple, and green marine algae; along with some meaty foods.

Dried Nori seaweed tied to a rock or on a veggie clip, Sea Veggies, Seaweed Salad, and Ocean Nutrition Seaweed Select are all ideal, easy to use products. Occasional meaty fare like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped pieces of fresh shrimp, scallops, mussels, clam, etc. should be offered to round out their diet.

A varied, but herbivore weighted diet is important to strengthen the fishes immune system, reduce aggression, and improve their overall health.

Because of the rarity and the fact that the Gem Tang (Zebrasoma gemmatum) comes from deeper waters and surge zones of their range which makes collecting them extremely difficult, they command a high price.

Tropical fish keeping enthusiast can find them online from a variety of wholesalers and retailers at purchase sizes of 3″ to 4″ at prices that vary from $499.00 to over $1762.99; to over $2000.00 for 5.25″ to 6.25″ specimens.

Gem Tang (Zebrasoma gemmatum

Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 8.7″
Color Form: Black, White, Yellow
Diet: Herbivore
Compatibility: Reef
Origin: California, Mexico
Family: Acanthuridae
Lifespan: 7 to 10 years, possibly longer
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Swissguard Basslet (Liopropoma rubre)

The Swissguard Basslet (Liopropoma rubre) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Peppermint Basslet is found in the western Atlantic from Bermuda and the Bahamas, into the Gulf of Mexico where it ranges from the Florida Keys, the Flower Garden Banks, and on the Campeche Bank off Mexico, southwards throughout the Caribbean Sea.

The Swissguard Basslet is a solitary species that lives in the caves, crevices, and overhangs found on the outer walls of the deeper coral reefs at depths from 10 to over 150 feet where they feed on small fish, small invertebrates, and crustaceans.    Swissguard Basslets are very territorial and will seldom stray far from their home rock, cave, or ledge; only venturing out to defend their territory or to find food.

Swissguard Basslet (Liopropoma rubre)

The Swissguard Basslet has a pointed head with a relatively large mouth and a moderately elongated and compressed body. The body color is red to yellow orange with five wide alternating horizontal stripes of black and yellow.   There is a large black spot outlined in pale blue on the rear dorsal fin and lower anal fin, and two black spots joined by a black bar outlined in pale blue on the caudal fin.

Although the Swissguard Basslet (Liopropoma rubre) is similar in size and coloration to the Candy Basslet (Liopropoma carmabi) and Swales Basslet (Liopropoma swalisi), it is less intensely colored.

The Swissguard Basslet is best housed in a FOWLR or reef aquiarium of at least 20 gallon capacity with a crushed coral or sandy substrate and plenty of mature live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs. Peppermint Basslets are reef safe and are compatible with most fish and invertebrates that are too large to be eaten.   Because it is found in the deeper waters of the Caribbean, it needs subdued lighting or several areas in the tank with lower light levels where it can hide from bright lighting.

The Swissguard Basslet is friendly and peaceful with tank mates close to it’s size, but is highly aggressive with their own species. That said, only one per tank is recommended.

Although the Swissguard Basslet has been bred in an aquarium environment, their larvae have not been successfully raised to adulthood. There is some evidence that they are protogynous hermaphrodites.

In their natural deep water environment, Swissguard Basslets feed mainly on crustaceans and tiny fish.   In an aquarium environment, they should be fed a variety of meaty fresh, frozen, or freeze dried foods like vitamin enriched brine shrimp, Krill, silver sides, Mysis shrimp, finely chopped shrimp, etc. They will also eagerly accept carnivore and Spirulina based pellets. Several small daily feedings are recommended.

Although the Swissguard Basslet (Liopropoma rubre) is rarely available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts in fish shops, they are available online from a variety of wholesalers and retailers, usually on a waiting list basis.  Prices for average purchase sizes of 1-1/2″ to 2-1/4″ vary from $129.99 to over $375.00.

Swissguard Basslet (Liopropoma rubre)

Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 72–78 °F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max size: 3″
Color Form: Red, Yellow, Black
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: Excellent Reef
Origin: Western Central Atlantic
Family: Serranidae
Lifespan: 2 to over 4 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Black Cap Basslet (Gramma melacara)

Black Cap Basslet (Gramma melacara) is a deep water species found in the tropical western Atlantic Ocean and range from the West Indies to the Bahamas.

Black Cap Basslets are a peaceful, solitary species that inhabit the outer vertical reef slopes and drop offs at depths from 35 to 600 feet. Although they are occasionally collected in shallower depths, they are usually found living between 65 and 200 feet along the cliff walls and steep vertical drop offs of their range, always close to the caves and crevices where they retreat to seek cover when they feel threatened.

Black Cap Basslet (Gramma melacara)

Black Cap Basslets have a brilliant purple body with a jet black diagonal cap that begins at the mouth, goes through the eyes, and tapers to end at the tip of the dorsal fin.   There are no external differences between sexes.

Black Cap Basslets are best housed in a reef or FOWLR aquarium of at least 30 gallon capacity with a sand of crushed coral substrate and plenty of mature live rock arranged into caves, overhangs, and crevices for them to hide among.   Although they are peaceful, they are very territorial with their own kind and may fight with other basslets or similar looking blennies species unless they are housed in a tank of at least 120 gallons, preferably larger.   Suitable tank mates include Dwarf Angelfish, Clownfish, Damselfish, Boxfish, Gobies, Tangs, and Hawkfish.

Gramma melacara are considered reef safe, however, they may devour small Invertebrates, such as copepods, amphipods, and isopods. Tiny shrimp may be eaten by this species.

Because they are a deep water species, they do better in an aquarium equipped with with a chiller system and slightly subdued lighting.

Black Cap Basslets have been bred in an aquarium environment.   Adults display distinct pairing during breeding and vigorously defend their nest against intruders. The male will build a nest using algae and tiny pieces of plant matter. After a brief courtship ritual, the female will lay a mass of up to 400 small adhesive eggs on the substrate, per spawn.   After the male fertilizes the eggs, both parents will aerate and stand guard over the spawn until they hatch out.   Black Cap Basslets are sequential hermaphrodites that have the ability to change sex depending on their reproductive situation.

In their natural habitat, Black Cap Basslets are carnivores that feed on a variety of Copepods, Isopods, Amphipods, and tiny fish.   In an aquarium environment, they should be fed a variety of fresh and frozen, Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, marine fish, crustacean flesh, finely chopped fresh shrimp, etc.

Because of their deep water habitat, the Black Cap Basslet (Gramma melacara) is usually available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from specialty fish shops and online wholesalers, retailers, and trans shippers at approximate purchase sizes of: Small: 1” to 2”; Medium: 2″ to 3″; Large 3″ to 4″.

Prices currently range from $89.00 to $120.00 for small specimens.

Black Cap Basslet (Gramma melacara)

Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 72–78 °F, dKH 8 – 12°, pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max size: 4″
Color Form: Black, Purple
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: Reef with Caution
Origin: Western Central Atlantic
Family: Grammidae
Lifespan: 2 to over 4 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Garibaldi Damselfish (Hypsypops rubicundus)

Garibaldi Damselfish (Hypsypops rubicundus) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Catalina Goldfish, Garibaldi, and Marine Goldfish are found in the subtropical northeastern part of the Pacific Ocean, and range from the Monterey Bay in California, to southern Baja California and Guadalupe Island (off northern central Baja California) in Mexico.

The Garibaldi Damselfish is protected species in California’s coastal waters and is the official state marine fish of California.

Garibaldi Damselfish are highly territorial, grow up to 15″ in length, and are the largest member of the damselfish family.

Adult Garibaldi Damselfish are normally found in clear water over the rocky reefs of their range near crevices, small caves, and occasionally in kelp, at depths of up to 100 feet where they feed mainly on the attached invertebrates that they extract from the rocks among the sea bed. Like most damselfish species, adults are highly territorial and aggressively defend their territories.

Juvenile Garibaldi Damselfish (Hypsypops rubicundus)

The less aggressive juvenile Garibaldi Damselfish have a reddish to red orange body color with small iridescent blue spots and fins outlined in blue, that disappear as they become adults.

Adult Garibaldi Damselfish, or Catalina Goldfish, are bright orange in color, with somewhat opaque caudal

Juvenile Garibaldi Damselfish (Hypsypops rubicundus)

and dorsal fins. Hypsypops rubicundus are sexually dimorphic.   Males are larger than females exhibit a lobe on the front of the head.

Juvenile Garibaldi Damselfish are best housed in a single species or FOWLR community aquarium of at least 180 gallon capacity, with a crushed coral or sandy substrate, and copious amounts of mature live rock arranged into crevices, caves, and overhangs for them to hide and graze on.    Juvenile Garibaldi are relative peaceful with fish of the same or slightly larger body size, but are highly competitive and territorial with smaller individuals.   Only one individual of this species should be kept in the same aquarium.   Garibaldi are considered reef safe, with caution.   Because they require cooler water temperatures; a chiller system is strongly suggested for maintaining this species.

Hypsypops rubicundus have not been bred in an aquarium environment.   They are demersal egg layers that pair off during breeding. Males clean off a sheltered nesting site on the substrate within their territory, where after a brief mating ritual, the female will deposit her adhesive eggs.  The male immediately fertilizes the eggs and guards them until they hatch out, usually within 19 to 21 days.  During the hatching out period, the males become super aggressive and will attack much larger species, including humans, who venture too close to the developing eggs.  The fry in their larval stage drift with the current as plankton, feeding on zooplankton and phytoplankton before settling to the bottom as a partially Garibaldi.

In their natural environment, Garibaldi Damselfish feed on invertebrates that are attached to the rocks and small fish.   In an aquarium environment, their diet should include a variety of herbivore preparations including fresh, frozen, or freeze dried meaty foods like shrimp, Krill, brine shrimp, finely chopped clams, squid, fresh fish, and flaked foods. Several small feedings daily are recommended.

Garibaldi Damselfish (Hypsypops rubicundus) are occasionally available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from specialty fish shops, online retailers, wholesalers, and auction sites at approximate purchase sizes of: Juvenile Small: 3/4″ to 1-1/2″; Medium 1 1/2″ to 2 1/4″ Large 2 1/4″ to 3″ Adult Small: 3″ to 3 1/2″ Medium 3 1/2″ to 4″ Large 4″ to 6″.    Prices for juvenile specimens start at around $150.00.

Adult Garibaldi Damselfish (Hypsypops rubicundus)

Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 64-74° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 14″
Color Form: Blue,Orange
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Reef
Origin: California, Mexico
Family: Pomacentridae
Lifespan: 25 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Adult Surge Damselfish (Chrysiptera brownriggii)

Surge Damselfish (Chrysiptera brownriggii) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as White Banded Damselfish, and White Banded Damsel are widespread throughout Indo Pacific waters from East Africa to the Marquesas Islands and Society Islands, north to Japan, and south to Australia.

Surge Damselfish are found alone and in small groups on the reef flats, submerged terraces, and around the rubble found in the channels created by the reef tidal surges at depths from 3 to over 40 feet, where they feed on benthic algae, small crustaceans, fish eggs, and algae.

Although adult Surge Damselfish are highly territorial and keep close to shelter in the rubble strewn channels and outermost reaches of exposed reef flats and upper submarine terrace at depths of around 40 feet, they are frequently found in small groups.

Surge Damselfish (Chrysiptera brownriggii)

Juvenile Surge Damselfish are a beautiful bright blue and yellow color.   As the become adults, they change into an intriguing gray to gray brown color with a white stripe pattern on the flanks.

Two color phases of Surge Damselfish exist.  A leucopoma phase, which is the blue backed variety; and the amabilis phase, which has a gray to black body that normally has two light bars and a large, blue edged black spot at end of dorsal fin base. Another yellow form has black spots at end of dorsal fin and its base.

Juvenile Surge Damselfish are considered semi aggressive.   As they grow into adulthood, they become more territorial and aggressive toward other species.

Surge Damselfish are best housed in a FOWLR or reef tank of at least 70 gallon capacity with a crushed coral or sandy substrate and plenty of live rock arranged into crevices, caves, and overhangs for them to graze on and hide among.   Their aggressive and territorial behavior makes them unsuitable for keeping with many semi aggressive species, especially when they become adults, however, they can be housed with dottybacks, large angelfish, surgeonfish, and triggerfish. Chrysiptera brownriggii are completely reef safe with corals, larger crustaceans, and with caution, invertebrates.

The reproductive habits of the Surge Damselfish have not been well documented, however, they are oviparous and display distinct pairing during breeding. Pairs follow a benthic egg laying cycle where after a brief courtship “dance”, the female lays her adhesive eggs on the substrate. After the male fertilizes the demersal eggs, he will guard and aerate them until they hatch out. The fry in their larval stage will drift with the current as plankton feeding on zooplankton and phytoplankton before settling to the bottom as a partially developed damselfish.

In their native habitat, Surge Damselfish feed on benthic algae, small crustaceans, fish eggs, and filamentous algae.   In an aquarium environment, they do well on a varied diet of vegetable matter and protein.   Meaty foods like finely chopped frozen seafood, krill, squid, clams, brine shrimp, Copepods, Daphnia salina, Fish larvae, and Mysis shrimp are ideal foods; along with herbivore or Spirulina flakes. Feed small portions several times a day.

Juvenile Surge Damselfish (Chrysiptera brownriggii) are rarely available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts however online wholesalers, trans-shippers, and retailers occasionally have them for sale at a reasonable cost.

Surge Damselfish (Chrysiptera brownriggii)

Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 73.4 °F – 78.8 °F, dKH 8 to 12 , pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 3.15″
Color Form: Brown, Blue, Black, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Reef
Origin: Indo Pacific
Family: Pomacentridae
Lifespan: 5-6 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate

Adult Yellow Stripe Damsel (Neoglyphidodon nigroris)

Yellow Stripe Damsel (Neoglyphidodon nigroris) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as
Bicolor Blackmouth Chromis, Behns Damselfish, Blackmouth Chromis, Blackmouth Damselfish, Yellow Honey Damsel, Black and Gold Chromis, Behn’s Damsel, Behn’s Damselfish, Scar-face Damsel-fish, Scarface Damsel, Yellowfin Damsel, and Behn´s Riffbarsch are distributed throughout the Eastern Indian Ocean, and Western Pacific.

In the East Indian Ocean they are found in the Eastern Andaman Sea (Phuket), Indonesia, and northern Australia.

In the Pacific Ocean they are found around Indonesia, the Philippines, Australia and New Caledonia, Vietnam, Taiwan, southern Japan and Ogasawara Islands, Malayan Archipelago, New Guinea, Palau, Ryukyu Islands, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and Hawaii.

Yellow Stripe Damsel (Neoglyphidodon nigroris)

Two forms of Yellow Stripe Damsels exist.   The black, long tailed form occurs in the Andaman Sea and ranges east to western Bali and north to Japan. The second form, Neoglyphidodon xanthurus occurs in the rest of the West Pacific.  Their ranges overlap on the north coast of Bali.

Yellow Stripe Damsels are usually found alone in the coral rich areas of lagoons and seaward reefs at depths from 6 to over 75 feet where they feed on algae, crustaceans, pelagic tunicates and salps.

Yellow Stripe Damsels are always born male but will change sex to become female as they grow; this is called successive protandrous hermaphroditism.

Juvenile Yellow Stripe Damsels have a bright yellow body color with two horizontal black stripes along the head and body, and a black spot at the base of the pectoral fin.   As they grow into adulthood, the body takes on a mostly dark brown to grayish brown color that begins at the head and transitions into a bright yellow color at the rear of the fish.   Two dark vertical bars on the pale face run below the eye and
behind the preopercle.

The Yellow Stripe Damsel is a solitary, semi aggressive, non migratory, reef associated species that becomes more aggressive and territorial as they mature into adulthood.

Juvenile Yellow Stripe Damsel (Neoglyphidodon nigroris)

Juvenile Neoglyphidodon nigroris are best housed as solitary individuals in a mature FOWLR or reef tank of at least 55 gallon capacity with a sandy or finely crushed coral substrate and plenty of live rock arranged into caves, crevices, and overhangs for them to hide among and graze on. In a community tank, they will chase smaller fish and hide in the live rock crevices to avoid bigger fish.   Their aggressive and territorial behavior makes them unsuitable for keeping with many semi aggressive species, especially as they become adults.

Yellow Stripe Damselfish require pristine water quality to flourish and avoid diseases.   Monthly 20% to 30% water changes are recommended to keep the nitrate content below 50mg/L.

Although the reproductive habits of the Yellow Stripe Damsel have not been well studied, they are oviparous and display distinct pairing during breeding. Pairs follow a benthic egg laying cycle where after a brief courtship “dance”, the female lays her adhesive eggs on a rock or shell in the substrate.  After the male fertilizes the demersal eggs, he guards and aerates them until they hatch. The fry in their larval stage will drift with the current as plankton feeding on zooplankton and phytoplankton before settling to the bottom as a partially developed damselfish.

In their native habitat, Bicolor Blackmouth Chromis feed on pelagic tunicates, salps, zooplankton, and algae.   In an aquarium environment, they should be fed a varied diet of vegetable matter and protein.  Meaty foods like finely chopped frozen seafoods, squid, clams, vitamin enriched brine shrimp, and Mysis shrimp are ideal foods, as well as herbivore or Spirulina flakes. Feed them small amounts several times a day.

Juvenile Yellow Stripe Damsels (Neoglyphidodon nigroris) are occasionally available to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts from specialty fish stores, online wholesalers, trans shippers, and retailers at a price of $8.99 to $12.99 for a 3/4″ to 1-1/2″ specimen.

Yellow Stripe Damsel (Neoglyphidodon nigroris)

Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 72-78°F, dKH 8 to 12 , pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 5″
Color Form: Black, Tan, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Reef
Origin: Indian Ocean
Family: Pomacentridae
Lifespan: 10 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner

Tracey’s Damselfish (Chrysiptera traceyi)

Tracey’s Damselfish (Chrysiptera traceyi) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as Tracey’s Demoiselles are a rare species of damselfish found in the Marshall and Caroline Islands in the Western Pacific Ocean. Specimens have also been reported in the Phillipines and Mariana Islands, as well as Tonga.

Tracey’s Damselfish are a diurnal species found singly and in small groups close to the bottom below the effects of the ocean’s surges in the lagoons and the seaward reefs of their range, at depths from 5 to over 130 feet where they graze on algae and zooplankton.

Tracey’s Damselfish (Chrysiptera traceyi)

Tracey’s Damselfish are colored predominately purple and yellow. The purple color begins at the head of the fish and transitions into a warm pink and orange color at midships, into a bright canary yellow at the anterior portion; with translucent yellow pectoral, anal, soft dorsal, and caudal fins. A dark black splotch appears between the soft dorsal and rear of the dorsal fin. The scales have tiny vertical electric blue to black markings that stand out under reef lighting.

Tracey’s Damselfish are best housed in small groups of odd numbered fish in a FOWLR or reef aquarium of at least 30 gallon capacity, with a sandy or finely crushed coral substrate and plenty of live rock arranged into crevices, caves, and overhangs for them to hide among. Adult Chrysiptera traceyi tend to ignore other fish, invertebrates, and corals but may be territorial towards their own kind or similar sized fish. They are completely reef safe.

Although Tracey’s Damselfish have not been successfully bred in an aquarium environment, they are oviparous and demonstrate distinct pairing during breeding. After a brief courtship ritual, the female will deposit a mass of small adhesive eggs on the substrate. The male will immediately fertilize the eggs, stand guard, and aerate the demersal eggs until the larvae hatch out.  The tiny fry in their larval stage drift with the current as plankton feeding on zooplankton and phytoplankton before settling to the bottom as partially developed damselfish.

In their natural habitat, Tracey’s Damselfish feed on algae and zooplankton.   In an aquarium environment they are not picky about their food and will aggressively accept a variety of fresh, frozen, or freeze dried meaty foods such as frozen Mysis or brine shrimp, chopped clam, fresh fish, herbivore preparations, and flaked foods. Feeding several times a day is recommended.

Tracey’s Damselfish (Chrysiptera traceyi) are occasionally seen in the aquarium trade but are not a commonly stocked item. Tropical fish keeping enthusiasts can occasionally find them online from divers, wholesalers, trans shippers, and retailers, usually by special order at prices around $29.99 for small; 3/4″-1″specimens.

Tracey’s Damselfish (Chrysiptera traceyi)

Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef or FOLR
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 74-78° F, dKH 8 to 12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max size: 1.75″
Color Form: Purple, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Reef
Origin: Fiji, Marshall and Caroline Islands
Family: Pomacentridae
Lifespan: 5 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner

Stark’s Damselfish (Chrysiptera starcki)

Stark’s Damselfish (Chrysiptera starcki) known to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as Stark’s Demoiselle or Starcki Damsel is found in the Western Pacific from the Ryukyu Islands and Taiwan, and south to Australia, New Caledonia, and Tonga. Recent genetic studies on Starcki populations from Tonga and specimens from Philippines reefs suggest that the two are markedly different.

Stark’s Damselfish are found alone and occasionally in pairs on coral reefs, rocky outcrops, and among the crevices and sandy channels on the deeper outer reef slopes in depths from 65 to over 200 feet, where they feed on algae, zooplankton, and phytoplankton.

Stark’s Damselfish (Chrysiptera starcki)

The Starcki Damsel has a bright blue body with a bright yellow stripe running the length of the dorsal to the tail. The jaw of the fish is yellow.

The Tonga and Australian populations have a caudal peduncle that is mostly yellow, with sparse specks of blue. The tail lobes are more emarginate and slightly forked at the tip.

Populations from the Philippines and upwards to Japan have blue on the entire caudal peduncle, as well as part of the rays on the tail. The lobes of the tail are also rounded, not forked like Australian populations.

Stark’s Damselfish are a semi aggressive species that can be housed as a single specimen in a mature FOWLR or reef tank of at least 30 gallon capacity with a sand or fine gravel substrate, plenty of live rock arranged into crevices, holes, overhangs, and caves for them to hide among, and lots of free swimming space.

Juvenile Stark’s Damselfish are not very aggressive, but as they grow larger they can be intolerant of their own kind, similar looking species, or anything that infringes in its territory.   Although only one specimen should be housed in a 30 gallon tank, a pair can be housed in a 100 gallon or larger tank provided plenty of hiding places are available.   Chrysiptera starcki are completely reef safe with corals and will ignore invertebrates.

The Stark’s Damselfish is a substrate spawner that pairs up to breed and will spawn in reef tanks. They have been bred in an aquarium environment, however, the eggs and larvae are quite small, subject to predation in the tank, and the fry are extremely difficult to rear.

During breeding, the male will prepare a territory full of rubble for the female to deposit her eggs and then quickly swim back and forth flashing his colors to entice a receptive female.   After the female deposits her adhesive, demersal eggs, the male will then fertilize and aggressively defend them from any intruders.   The fertilized eggs are aerated by the male until they are hatched out.   The tiny hatched larvae drift away with the current as plankton, feeding on the other zooplankton and phytoplankton until they eventually settle to the bottom.

Stark’s Damselfish are omnivores that feed on zooplankton and algae in their natural environment.   In an aquarium environment, they should be fed a variety of fresh, frozen, or freeze dried vitamin enriched foods to thrive and maintain their bright colors.   They are not fussy eaters and will accept frozen vitamin enriched brine shrimp, Mysis shrimp, algae flakes, etc.

Although Stark’s Damselfish (Chrysiptera starcki) have been sold in fish shops to tropical fish keeping enthusiasts for over a decade, they are still not commonly traded and are more expensive than most damselfish. This is probably because they tend to occur mainly in deeper waters, which makes collection more difficult.

They are available online from wholesale and retail sites at the following approximate purchase sizes: Small: 3/4″ to 1-1/4 ; Medium: 1-1/4″ to 2-1/4″ ; Large: 2 1/4″ to 3 1/4. The medium size from the Coral Sea currently sell for $89.99.

Stark’s Damselfish (Chrysiptera starcki)

Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Aquarium Type: Reef, FOLR
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi Aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Very Hardy
Water Conditions: 72-78°F, dKH 8 to 12 , pH 8.1 – 8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 3.5″
Color Form: Blue, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Reef
Origin: West Pacific
Family: Pomacanthidae
Lifespan: 5 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner