Royal Gramma

The Royal Gramma, also known as the Fairy Basslet, is a stunning and peaceful saltwater fish beloved for its vibrant two-tone coloration. With a bright purple-to-violet front half and a golden yellow rear half, these small fish are eye-catching additions to reef tanks. They are relatively shy and prefer to hang out near rock caves and crevices. Royal Grammas are hardy, reef-safe, and peaceful, making them excellent choices for both beginner and experienced saltwater aquarists. Their small size allows them to be kept in modest-sized tanks.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Royal Grammas need plenty of hiding spots and a peaceful environment:

• Minimum 30 gallons (40+ recommended)
• Lots of caves and crevices - essential for security
• Rockwork with hiding spots throughout tank
• Peaceful tank mates
• Protein skimmer
• Moderate flow
• Heater to maintain 72-78°F
• Tight-fitting lid - they can jump when startled

Important: They are cave dwellers and need multiple hiding spots to feel secure.

Water Quality (Marine)

• Temperature: 72-78°F (22-25.5°C)
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm
• Phosphate: <0.03 ppm
• Calcium: 400-450 ppm
• Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH

Maintenance:

• Weekly 10-15% water changes
• Top off with RO/DI water daily
• Maintain stable parameters

Feeding

Royal Grammas are carnivores with small mouths:

• Frozen Mysis shrimp (small pieces)
• Frozen brine shrimp
• Marine pellets (small size)
• Marine flakes (high quality)
• Copepods (live or frozen)

Feeding Schedule: 2 times daily. They may be shy about eating initially.

Note: Target feeding near their cave can help shy individuals get adequate nutrition.

Behavior & Compatibility

Royal Grammas are peaceful but territorial with their own species:

• Good Tank Mates:

  • Clownfish
  • Small tangs
  • Gobies
  • Blennies
  • Cardinalfish
  • Dartfish
  • Small wrasses
  • Firefish
  • Cleaner shrimp

• Avoid:

  • Other Royal Grammas (unless mated pair in large tank)
  • Aggressive fish (damsels, dottybacks, triggers)
  • Large predatory fish
  • Fish that might outcompete them for food

Behavior: They dart in and out of caves, often swimming upside down under rock ledges. They claim a territory and defend it from other grammas.

Jumping Risk

Royal Grammas can be startled and jump:

• Recommended: Tight-fitting lid
• They may jump when frightened or during acclimation
• Secure any equipment openings

Coloration

Their dramatic color split is their trademark:

• Front half: Purple to violet
• Rear half: Golden yellow
• Face: Yellow-orange
• Colors intensify with good nutrition and water quality

Health Considerations

Royal Grammas are generally hardy but watch for:

• Starvation: Shy fish may not get enough food in competitive tanks
• Marine Ich: Quarantine new fish
• Stress: Easily stressed by aggressive tank mates

Prevention: Provide plenty of caves, target feed if necessary, and keep with peaceful tank mates.