Swale’s Reef Basslet
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
Scott W. Michael
[edit] Overview
Once a prized rarity, this species is now commonplace in the aquarium trade. Although eye-catchingly comely in appearance, it is very secretive. It may remain hidden for weeks or even months, especially in a large reef tank.
Family: Serranidae
Other common name(s):
- Swalesi Reef Basslet
- Orange-lined Reef Basslet
Native range:
Habitat: Provide this species with plenty of small caves and crevices in which to hide.
Maximum length: 6.4 cm (3 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 76 L (20 gal)
Water: Marine 24 °C (297 K, 75 °F) - 28 °C (301 K, 82 °F)
[edit] Feeding
Meaty foods, including frozen seafood. May require live ghost shrimp to initiate a feeding response. You will need to be sure it gets enough to eat if housed with aggressive tankmates. This can be difficult, as it tends to spend most of its time hiding.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
Keep one per tank, unless your aquarium is large (135 gallons [513 L] or more) with lots of rockwork; or if you can, acquire a heterosexual pair.
[edit] Notes
A tank cover is necessary, as it may jump out of an open aquarium. A similar species is Reynold’s Reef Basslet (Liopropoma sp.). Reynold’s is similar in husbandry to L. swalesi.
| Common name | Swale’s Reef Basslet +, Swalesi Reef Basslet +, and Orange-lined Reef Basslet + |
| Family | Serranidae + |
| Genus | Liopropoma + |
| Image credit | SWM + |
| Maximum length | 3 in + |
| Minimum aquarium size | 20 gal + |
| Native range | Western Pacific +, Indonesia +, and New Britain + |
| Reference | A PocketExpert Guide to Reef Aquarium Fishes + |
| Specific name | swalesi + |
| Text credit | SWM + |
| Water max temp | 301 K (28 °C, 82 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 297 K (24 °C, 75 °F) + |
| Water type | Marine + |