Arrived 12.8

Gramma loreto, commonly known as the Royal fairy basslet, is a small colourful basslet which looks very similar to less-known G. brasiliensis (which was the more common one a few decades back). In fact, most people won't see the difference unless they know what to look for. Both fishes have a purple head which continues into the first half of the body. The other half and caudal fin are orangish-yellow. The biggest difference is that G. brasiliensis have a larger more aggressive looking mouth and eye, and don't have the yellow stripe(s) on the head which is clearly seen in G. loreto.

These fish like the safety of a cave or other hiding spots and they can often be observed upside-down under a ledge. In nature a territory is formed in such caves with 1-4 individuals.  In a small aquarium it is best to only house one Gramma, but if the tank is large enough you can try to house a group. Best buy them small and in different sizes to have the smallest change of quibbling among the group.

These fish are planktivores, so make sure to feed them multiple times a day a varied diet of small meaty live and frozen foods like copepods and brine shrimp. Once they're settled in your aquarium they should usually start eating high quality flakes and pellets as well.