Gramma - Blackcap
Gramma melacara
Care: Intermediate
Diet: Carnivorous
Light: Medium
Place of origin: Caribbean
Temperature: Tropical: 23-27 deg C (73-81 deg F)
Water Parameters: SG: 1.020-1.025, pH: 8.1-8.4
Mainly found in the north-western and southern Caribbean region, and less common in the rest of the region or north to the Bahamas. Various reef habitats with caves and crevices at 20m or more, reported to 130m depth. Often swimming with its belly orientated to wall or ceiling. Easily identified by the mostly purple colour, and dark area over the back from tip of snout, lower edge running through lower part of eye and up to dorsal fin, ending as a submarginal stripe. Large individuals, possibly males, with yellow scribbles in dark area on head. Length to 10cm.