Bicolor Basslet (Lipogramma klayi) Care Guide
Lipogramma klayi is a tiny deep-water Western Atlantic basslet of steep reef slopes and walls, reaching only about 4 cm.
Overview
Lipogramma klayi Randall, 1963, the bicolor basslet, is a tiny reef fish of the family Grammatidae. FishBase records a maximum total length of 4 cm. The genus name refers to the absence of a well-developed lateral line, and the species is named after Gerrit Klay, who provided the type specimen.
Taxonomy
- Family: Grammatidae
- Genus: Lipogramma
- Scientific name: Lipogramma klayi Randall, 1963
Habitat
According to FishBase the species is found in the Western Central Atlantic, from the Bahamas and Central America to northern South America. It inhabits reef-associated steep seaward slopes and walls at depths of 45 to 145 m.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 60 L (about 16 gal) (KB record)
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Carbonate hardness range (record): 8-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 5-10 years (KB record)
Diet
FishBase classifies the species as carnivorous, with a trophic level near 3.2. Small carnivore preparations offered a couple of times daily suit this small fish, consistent with the feeding frequency noted in the record.
Compatibility
This is a peaceful, mid-water fish well suited to nano reef aquaria. Suitable companions include clownfish, tangs, cardinalfish and wrasses, while other small dottybacks in confined tanks and predators such as lionfish should be avoided.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern, assessed 23 March 2011. FishBase lists the species for both commercial fisheries and the aquarium trade.