Swales Swissguard Basslet
$149.99
Liopropoma swalesi
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive |
| Color Form | Black, Blue, Orange, Purple, White |
| Diet | Carnivore |
| Reef Compatible | Yes |
| Water Conditions | sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4 |
| Max Size | 3″ |
| Family | Grammidae |
| Minimum Tank Size | 10 gallons |
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Description
Overview
The Swales Swissguard Basslet (Liopropoma swalesi) is an Indo-Pacific marine fish distinct from the Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto), although both are popular in the aquarium trade and belong to the same broader family (Serranidae) as groupers.Â
Key Characteristics
- Scientific Name:Â Liopropoma swalesi
- Origin:Â Native to the deep reef habitats of the Indo-Pacific, including Indonesia and the Philippines. This contrasts with the Royal Gramma, which is from the Western Atlantic/Caribbean.
- Coloration:Â It features an elongated body with striking alternating horizontal stripes of orange/red and light purple/white. It also has distinctive black spots on its dorsal and anal fins.
- Size:Â It typically grows to a maximum size of about 3 inches (7.5 cm).
- Temperament:Â Generally peaceful but reclusive, often seeking shelter in rockwork and caves. It can be territorial toward its own species or similar-shaped fish and may consume very small ornamental shrimp.
- Aquarium Care:Â Considered a moderate-care fish best suited for experienced aquarists due to its shy nature and dietary needs. It requires a well-established aquarium (minimum 10-30 gallons) with plenty of live rock for hiding. It needs a carnivorous diet of meaty foods like mysis shrimp and chopped seafood.Â
Habitat and Tank Requirements
In the wild, the Swalesi Basslet inhabits deep reef environments, dwelling in rocky crevices and caves. To replicate this in an aquarium, you must provide ample live rock formations with plenty of hiding spots. A secure, tight-fitting lid is also highly recommended, as they are known to be jumpers.Â
Diet and Feeding
As carnivores, Swalesi Basslets require a diet rich in meaty foods. They should be fed small amounts multiple times a day due to their high metabolism. Suitable foods include:Â
- Mysis shrimp
- Vitamin-enriched brine shrimp
- Finely chopped marine fish, squid, or clam
- High-quality frozen or pellet foodsÂ
They will also naturally feed on small crustaceans (like amphipods and copepods) found in the live rock of a well-established reef tank.Â
Compatibility
The Swalesi Basslet is generally peaceful but can be territorial towards other basslets or similarly shaped fish. They are considered reef-safe and typically do not bother corals, but may consume very small ornamental shrimp or tiny fish that fit into their mouth.Â
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