Extreme Gladiator Clownfish Pair

WYSIWYG – Approx. Size: 1.5 Inches

Introduction to Saltwater Basslets

Basslets are small, colorful, and hardy reef-safe fish known for their bold personalities and territorial nature. Native to the Caribbean and Indo-Pacific reefs, these fish prefer rocky caves and ledges, where they can dart in and out for cover. While they are generally peaceful toward most tankmates, basslets can be aggressive toward their own kind or similar-looking fish, making careful stocking important.Thanks to their compact size, ease of care, and vibrant coloration, basslets are excellent choices for nano and mid-sized reef tanks.

Care Requirements

Care Level: Easy to ModerateMinimum Tank Size: 20 50+ gallonsSmaller species (e.g., Royal Gramma, Chalk Bass) 20-30 gallonsLarger or shyer species (e.g., Black Cap Basslet, Swissguard Basslet) 40-50+ gallonsAquarium Setup: Requires plenty of rockwork and caves to establish a territory and reduce stress.

Diet & Nutrition

Diet: Carnivorous Thrives on a variety of meaty foods

Recommended Foods:

Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and planktonHigh-quality marine pellets and flakesSmall chopped seafood (for larger species)Basslets are opportunistic feeders and will accept both frozen and prepared foods, making them easy to feed.

Lifespan & Growth Rate

Lifespan: 5-8+ yearsGrowth Rate: Slow to Moderate Most species stay under 4 inchesWith proper care, basslets can live well over five years in a stable environment.

Temperament & Compatibility

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive Territorial toward similar species but peaceful with most reef fishReef Safe? Yes Does not harm corals or most invertebratesBasslets do best in peaceful community tanks but may become aggressive toward other basslets or similar-looking fish. To minimize aggression:Keep only one basslet per tank, unless in a large system with plenty of hiding spots.Introduce them after more timid tankmates, as they can be territorial once established.Avoid keeping them with highly aggressive fish like large wrasses or dottybacks.

Common Challenges & Considerations

Territorial Behavior: Can be aggressive toward fish of similar size and shape.Jumping Risk: Basslets may jump when startled, so a secure lid is recommended.Shyness in New Environments: Some species, like the Swissguard Basslet, can be more reclusive at first but will become bolder over time.Water ConditionsTemperature: 74-80FdKH (Alkalinity): 8-12pH: 8.1-8.4Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025Basslets are hardy and adaptable but require stable water parameters to remain healthy.

Color Varieties & Popular Species

Basslets are prized for their bright colors and striking patterns, making them standout additions to reef aquariums. Popular species include:Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto) Vibrant purple-to-yellow gradient, one of the most popular reef fishBlack Cap Basslet (Gramma melacara) Deep purple body with a striking black head capSwissguard Basslet (Liopropoma rubre) Sleek orange body with thin dark stripes, more reclusive but highly sought-afterChalk Bass (Serranus tortugarum) Hardy, bluish-purple with orange markings, one of the most peaceful basslets

Introduction to Saltwater Clownfish

Clownfish are among the most popular and recognizable marine fish, known for their bright colors, hardy nature, and fascinating symbiotic relationships with anemones. Native to tropical reefs in the Indo-Pacific, these fish thrive in reef aquariums of all sizes, making them an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists.Clownfish are incredibly adaptable, and many aquacultured varieties are available, making them easier to care for and less aggressive than wild-caught specimens.

Care Requirements

Care Level: EasyMinimum Tank Size: 20 50+ gallonsOcellaris & Percula Clownfish 20+ gallons (smaller and more peaceful)Maroon Clownfish & Larger Varieties 50+ gallons (more aggressive, need more space)Aquarium Setup: Prefers rock structures for hiding and stable water conditions.

Diet & Nutrition

Clownfish are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet that includes both meaty and plant-based foods.Diet: Omnivorous Eats a mix of proteins and algae

Recommended Foods:

High-quality marine pellets and flakesFrozen mysis and brine shrimpChopped seafood and enriched frozen foodsAlgae-based foods (spirulina, seaweed sheets)Feeding small portions 1-2 times per day ensures optimal health, vibrant coloration, and proper growth.

Lifespan & Growth Rate

Lifespan: 6-10+ yearsGrowth Rate: Moderate Most species reach 2-6 inches depending on the varietyWith proper care, clownfish can live over a decade in captivity, making them a long-term commitment for aquarists.

Temperament & Compatibility

Temperament: Peaceful to Semi-Aggressive Can become territorial as they matureReef Safe? Yes Clownfish do not harm corals or invertebratesClownfish are peaceful fish but may become territorial as they establish their space, especially when paired with an anemone. To ensure compatibility:Best kept in pairs or small groupsbut avoid mixing different clownfish species in small tanks.Introduce them before more aggressive fish to help them establish their territory.Compatible with most reef-safe community fish, including wrasses, gobies, and tangs.

Common Challenges & Considerations

Aggression in Larger Species: Maroon Clownfish and Tomato Clownfish can be highly territorial and may bully tankmates.Hosting with Anemones: While not required, clownfish may form a symbiotic bond with certain anemones like Bubble Tip Anemones (Entacmaea quadricolor). However, not all clownfish will host anemones in captivity.Jumping Risk: Clownfish can jump out of open-top tanks, so a lid or mesh cover is recommended.Water ConditionsTemperature: 74-80FdKH (Alkalinity): 8-12pH: 8.1-8.4Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025Clownfish are hardy and adaptable, but stable water parameters are essential for long-term health.

Color Varieties & Popular Species

Clownfish come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, with many aquacultured morphs available. Some of the most popular species include:Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) Classic “Nemo” appearance, available in wild-type and designer morphsPercula Clownfish (Amphiprion percula) Similar to Ocellaris but with brighter colors and thicker black outlinesMaroon Clownfish (Premnas biaculeatus) Deep red coloration, highly territorial and best kept alone or in pairsSnowflake Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris variant) White and orange designer morph with irregular banding