Royal Gramma

Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto)

Overview

The Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto) is a small, vibrantly colored marine fish prized for its striking purple front half and bright yellow tail. Native to the western Atlantic, including the Caribbean Sea, it inhabits reef crevices and overhangs, making it an ideal addition to reef aquariums.

This peaceful species is hardy, easy to care for, and displays fascinating behaviors such as hovering near rockwork and darting into crevices when threatened, making it an engaging and visually striking choice for aquarists.

Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (115 litres)

• Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.020–1.025

• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

• Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: < 10 ppm

• Aquascape: Provide live rock with caves and crevices for hiding and territorial behavior

Royal Grammas thrive in established aquariums with stable water parameters and plenty of hiding spots.

Diet and Feeding

This species is carnivorous and benefits from a varied diet:

• High-quality marine flakes or pellets

• Frozen foods such as mysis, brine shrimp, or chopped seafood

• Occasional live foods to encourage natural hunting behavior

Feed two to three times daily in small portions.

Temperament and Compatibility

The Royal Gramma is generally peaceful and compatible with most community reef species, though it may defend its territory if housed with very small or similar-sized fish.

Tankmate Recommendations:

• Suitable: Clownfish, gobies, blennies, small wrasses, and other peaceful reef fish

• Avoid: Aggressive or much larger predatory fish

Providing adequate hiding spaces reduces stress and ensures the Royal Gramma feels secure.

Reef Compatibility

✅ Reef Safe

The Royal Gramma is reef safe and does not harm corals or sessile invertebrates. Its small size and peaceful nature make it an ideal addition to reef aquariums.

Additional Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 8 cm (3 inches)

• Lifespan: 5–7 years with proper care

• Difficulty Level: Easy

• Natural Behavior: Peaceful, territorial, reef crevice dweller

• Origin: Western Atlantic, Caribbean Sea

The Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto) is a hardy, peaceful, and vividly colored reef fish that brings personality and visual interest to small to medium marine or reef aquariums. With proper diet, stable water parameters, and sufficient rockwork for shelter, it thrives as a long-lived and captivating member of the aquarium community.