Royal Gramma

Royal Gramma, belonging to the Grammatidae family, is a saltwater fish, indigenous to the tropical areas of the western Atlantic Ocean. Reef tanks and aquariums are apt to house this species as they dwell amidst rocks and corals in the wild. Their vibrant coloration and striking appearance make them easily identifiable from other inmates in a fish tank. They are also unique for their diverse temperament, a blend of submissiveness and aggression.  This fish was portrayed in the animated series Finding Nemo through Gurgle’s character.

Quick Information

Scientific Name	Gramma loreto
Other Names	Fairy basslet
Origin	Western Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea
Type	Saltwater fish
Conservation Status	Not recorded
Behavioral Characteristics	Calm, passive, shy, mostly hiding in their dwellings; but aggressive when protecting their domain
School Size	Not suited for schooling due to their territorial nature; may thrive in a small group in a big aquarium
Physical Traits	Small-sized; elongated, slightly compressed body; large eyes with a black line passing through them; short snout
Colors	Light purple or deep violet from the head to the middle part of its body, deep yellow or orange at the lower end; tiny, black spot on its dorsal fin
Size	Small; 3.1 inches (8 cm)
Lifespan	5 – 6 years
Sexual Dimorphism	Present; males are larger with bigger ventral fins and brighter colorations than their female counterparts
Probable Diseases	Ich and fin rot
Approximate Price	$25 – 40

Tank Setup & Care Sheet Details

Care Level	Beginner
Tank Size	30 gallons (114 liters) for a single royal gramma; 50 gallons (190 liters) for pairs; 100 gallons (370 liters) for a small group

Water Parameters

pH Level	8.1 – 8.4
Temperature	72 – 78°F (22.2 – 25.5°C)
Hardness	8 – 12 dGH
Aquarium  Water Flow	Moderate

Tank Ambience

Lighting	Subdued
Substrate Type	Live rocks, and cavities to help them hide
Tank Mates	Compatible with: Clownfish, hawkfish, boxfish, gobies, angelfish; corals and invertebrates Incompatible with: Large, aggressive species like flowerhorn, piranha, and red-tailed black shark; other royal gramma species especially of the same sex
Suitable Position in the Tank	Middle

Feeding

Diet	Planktivorous diet of phytoplankton, and zooplankton; carnivorous diet of brine shrimp; flake and pellets
Frequency	3 times a day

Important Things to Know for Fish Keepers

• Owners need not get perturbed on seeing an otherwise healthy fish swim in an upside-down or upright posture especially near the tank surface as they often tend to align themselves to the surface they are closest to.
• The royal gramma is known for displaying its jumping skills, especially when it is new to the tank. A firm weighted lid must, therefore, be put on the aquarium to prevent them from moving out.
• Avoid keeping two royal gammas of the same sex together as they might get aggressive at one another.
• There are mixed opinions regarding its compatibility with certain species like coral beauty. Some owners have mentioned the latter bullying and chasing the royal gramma when kept together.

FAQs