Black Cap Basslet

The Blackcap Basslet (Gramma melacara) is a small, deep‑water Caribbean reef fish known for its vivid purple body and the bold black diagonal “cap” across its head. It’s hardy, striking, and popular in reef aquariums, but more territorial than its Royal Gramma cousin. 🐠 Identity & Appearance • Scientific name: Gramma melacara • Size: Up to 10 cm / 4 in • Coloration: Deep violet to magenta body with a jet‑black diagonal cap running from the snout to the dorsal fin. • Distinctive behavior: Often hovers upside‑down under ledges or inside caves. 🌍 Natural Habitat & Range • Found throughout the Western Atlantic and Caribbean, including the Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica, and the Lesser Antilles. • Prefers steep reef drop‑offs, caves, and shaded crevices. • Depth range: 10–180 m, most commonly 20–60 m. • Naturally shy, staying close to a chosen cave or overhang. 🧠 Behavior & Temperament • Territorial, especially once settled. More aggressive than the Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto). • Typically solitary; may tolerate conspecifics only in very large systems (6 ft+ tanks). • Will prey on small invertebrates such as copepods, amphipods, isopods, and sometimes small shrimp. 🏡 Aquarium Care Overview • Minimum tank size: 30–40 gallons; larger if keeping more than one. • Aquascape: Essential to provide caves, crevices, and shaded areas to mimic deep‑reef habitat. • Lighting: Prefers dim or indirect light due to deep‑water origins. • Diet: Carnivorous—feeds on small crustaceans, zooplankton, and meaty frozen foods (mysis, chopped seafood). • Water parameters: • Temp: 72–78°F • Salinity: 1.020–1.026 • pH: 8.1–8.4 • Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH 🧬 Lifespan & Hardiness • Lifespan: 6–10 years in optimal conditions. • Generally hardy once acclimated, provided it has secure territory and appropriate tankmates. 🪸 Compatibility Notes • Reef‑safe, but may eat very small shrimp. • Best with peaceful to moderately assertive tankmates that won’t invade its cave. • Avoid housing with similar‑shaped or similar‑colored basslets/grammas unless in a very large tank.