Swales Swissguard 

Also known as the Swissguard Basslet or Swales Basslet

The Swales Swissguard is a rare and exquisite species that brings stunning coloration and elegance to marine aquariums. Native to deep reef slopes in the Caribbean, particularly around the Cayman Islands and Little Cayman, this elusive basslet features a brilliant orange-yellow body adorned with electric blue markings and distinctive stripes. With their shy temperament, spectacular appearance, and limited availability, Swales Swissguard are prized additions for intermediate to advanced aquarists seeking a rare, reef-safe jewel for peaceful systems.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Liopropoma swalesi
• Common Names: Swales Swissguard Basslet, Swales Basslet, Peppermint Basslet (regional)
• Adult Size: 3–3.5 inches (7–9 cm); commonly 2.5–3 inches in aquariums
• Lifespan: 5–10 years with proper care
• Temperament: Very peaceful and shy; secretive by nature
• Reef Compatibility: Completely reef-safe – ideal for reef aquariums
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum (40+ gallons recommended)
• Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced – requires patience and proper environment

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat: Found on deep reef slopes, drop-offs, and cave systems at depths of 150–500 feet. Inhabits dimly lit areas with extensive cave networks and rarely ventures into open water.

Tank Environment:

• Extensive cave systems and rockwork essential
• Multiple hiding spots and crevices required
• Deep, shaded areas with overhangs
• Subdued lighting strongly preferred
• Peaceful tankmates only
• Mature reef or FOWLR setup recommended

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72–76°F (22–24°C) (prefers cooler temperatures)
• Salinity: 1.024–1.026 specific gravity
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <10 ppm (excellent water quality essential)
• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

Diet & Feeding

Recommended Foods:

• Fresh/frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods (primary diet)
• Finely chopped seafood, krill
• High-quality marine pellets (small size, once acclimated)
• Live blackworms, live brine shrimp (helpful during acclimation)
• Vitamin-enriched frozen preparations

Feeding Schedule:

• Feed 1–2 times daily
• Target feed near caves during subdued lighting
• May require patient coaxing initially
• Small, frequent meals preferred
• May take several days to begin eating after introduction

Behavior & Compatibility

Tank Mates:

• Compatible with: Peaceful gobies, blennies, dartfish, firefish, peaceful wrasses, cardinalfish, anthias, clownfish, small peaceful tangs, other shy species
• Caution with: Aggressive feeders, boisterous species, other basslets (may compete for caves)
• Avoid: All aggressive species, large predators, highly active fish, multiple Swissguard basslets unless tank is 75+ gallons

Social Behavior:

• Extremely shy and secretive
• Best kept singly in home aquariums
• May form pairs in larger systems with ample caves
• Often remains hidden for extended periods
• More active during dawn/dusk and subdued lighting
• Peaceful toward all tankmates but very timid
• Will not compete well with aggressive feeders

Reef Compatibility: Completely reef-safe with all corals, anemones, and sessile invertebrates. Safe with all ornamental shrimp, crabs, and invertebrates. Will not harm any fish or invertebrates.

Color & Development

Coloration: Brilliant golden-orange to yellow-orange body with 5–7 electric blue to neon blue horizontal stripes running length of body; blue markings around eyes and face; black spot on dorsal fin; fins edged in blue; absolutely stunning appearance when visible.

Color Intensity:

• High-quality diet maintains vibrant orange and blue
• Colors most vivid during active periods
• Stress may cause temporary fading
• Blue stripes become more intense with maturity
• Excellent water quality essential for optimal coloration
• One of the most colorful basslet species

Size & Growth:

• Specimens typically available at 2–3 inches
• Slow growth rate
• Often near adult size when collected
• Remains small throughout life

Why Choose a Quarantined Swales?

A properly quarantined Swales Swissguard is a healthier, acclimated specimen that has been observed, treated, and conditioned for aquarium life. Our quarantine protocol includes 4–6 weeks minimum observation (critical for shy species), preventative parasite treatment, dietary conditioning to accept frozen foods, stress reduction and environmental acclimation, and behavioral assessment to ensure stable feeding.

These spectacular basslets combine breathtaking coloration with peaceful temperament, making them prized additions for patient aquarists with appropriate peaceful setups. While shy by nature, their rare beauty and stunning orange-and-blue striping make every sighting a rewarding experience. Perfect for mature reef aquariums with subdued lighting and peaceful tankmates where their exquisite colors can be appreciated by those willing to provide the quiet, cave-rich environment they require.