Black Cap Basslet – Gramma melacara

The Black Cap Basslet (Gramma melacara) has a purple body with a black patch from the lip to the dorsal fin. This Caribbean fish is more delicate than its more popular cousin, the Royal Gramma (G. loreto).

Grammas are cave dwelling fish that need good hiding places to feel secure. They are generally peaceful fish, but may not tolerate other cave dwelling fish or other grammas in a small tank. They are ideal for reef aquariums. Their diet should consist of small meaty foods like mysis shrimp and fortified brine shrimp.