Swale's Reef Basslet
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
This secretive fish needs small caves and crevices in which to hide. 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:
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.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
Keep one per tank, unless your aquarium is larger (135 gallons [513 L] or more) with lots of rockwork, or if you can acquire a heterosexual pair.
[edit] Special Care
Provide it with plenty of small caves and crevices in which to hide. 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. A tank cover is necessary, as it may jump out of an open aquarium.
[edit] Notes
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 + |